Everest Advance Base Camp Trek

Trip Overview

The Everest Advance Base Camp Trek is a high-altitude adventure that takes trekkers to the world’s highest trek-accessible point on Everest’s northern side. Beginning in Kathmandu, the journey starts with cultural explorations of UNESCO World Heritage Sites before flying to Lhasa, the heart of Tibet. From there, the route traverses the Tibetan Plateau, passing through iconic sites such as the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Tashi Lhunpo Monastery. The trek progresses through rugged terrain, high passes, and glacial landscapes, culminating at Everest’s Advanced Base Camp (6,340m/20,800ft), offering unparalleled views of the towering north face. With expert guides, yak support, and a mix of hotel stays and tented camps, this challenging expedition blends cultural immersion, history, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery for an unforgettable experience.

Total Duration

22 Nights / 23 Days

Trek Duration

18 Days

Max Elevation

6,340m / 20,800ft

Grading

Strenuous

Trek Start / Ends

Lhasa / Everest Advanced Base Camp – Kathmandu

Tour Start / Ends

Kathmandu

Suggested Season

Apr – Oct

Accomodation

Tourist Standard Hotels, Basic Guesthouses, and Tented Camps

Trip Highlights

Guided Cultural Tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO Heritage Sites
Scenic Flight to Lhasa with Stunning Himalayan Views
Explore Lhasa – Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street
Drive Through the Tibetan Plateau and Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery
Trek Through Remote, Rugged Landscapes of the Himalayas
Cross High-Altitude Passes with Breathtaking Views
Reach Everest Advanced Base Camp (6,340m) – The Highest Trekking Point on Everest
Experience the Dramatic North Face of Mount Everest
Cultural Immersion with Tibetan Monasteries and Nomadic Life
Trekking Adventure with Expert Guides and Yak Support

Detail Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive in Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel

Warm welcome at Tribhuvan International Airport.
Transfer to hotel in the heart of Kathmandu.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast / Refreshments

Day 2

Explore the Best of Kathmandu

Explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a living museum of medieval Nepal, with its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
Visit the sacred Pashupatinath Temple and the Holy Bagmati River, where Hindu pilgrims perform rituals and cremation rites.
Ascend to Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) for breathtaking views of Kathmandu Valley and a serene spiritual experience.
Immerse yourself in Nepal’s rich cultural and religious heritage before your trek begins.
Accommodation:Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3

Kathmandu Exploration & Trek Briefing

Explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, the former royal seat adorned with pagoda-style temples and the historic Hanuman Dhoka Palace.
Discover Patan Durbar Square, famed for its Newar artistry, including Krishna Mandir and the golden-roofed Hiranya Varna Mahavihar.
Visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), an ancient hilltop stupa offering sweeping views of Kathmandu Valley.
Engage in an informative trek briefing covering trail conditions, cultural norms, safety measures, and preparation guidelines.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4

Fly to Lhasa

Enjoy a scenic flight to Lhasa with breathtaking aerial views of Everest, Kangchenjunga, and the Himalayan range.
Arrive in Lhasa, the spiritual and cultural heart of Tibet, and settle in for acclimatization.
Stroll through vibrant city streets where ancient Tibetan Buddhist traditions harmonize with modern life.
Experience iconic landmarks such as the Potala Palace, symbol of Tibet’s spiritual and political heritage.
Discover sacred sites like Jokhang Temple and Drepung Monastery, rich with murals, relics, and Tibetan artistry.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: BLD
Altitude: 3,700 m

Day 5

Explore Lhasa

Explore Sera Monastery and witness the famous monk debates that animate Tibetan Buddhist philosophy.
Visit the majestic Potala Palace, a symbol of Tibet’s spiritual and political legacy.
Experience Jokhang Temple, Tibet’s most sacred pilgrimage site and home to the revered Jowo Rinpoche statue.
Stroll through Barkhor Market, immersing yourself in traditional Tibetan life, rituals, and craftsmanship.
Discover the vibrant blend of spiritual devotion and cultural heritage that defines Lhasa.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: BLD
Altitude: 3,700 m

Day 6

Explore Around Lhasa

Visit Drepung Monastery, once the world’s largest monastery, renowned for its grand assembly halls and intricate Buddhist murals.
Explore Norbulingka, the summer palace of the Dalai Lama, featuring beautiful gardens, ornate woodwork, and tranquil courtyards.
Gain insight into Tibetan Buddhist heritage and the spiritual legacy of the Dalai Lamas.
Experience the art, architecture, and devotion that define Tibet’s timeless culture.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: BLD
Altitude: 3,700 m

Day 7

Drive to Gyantse via Yamdrok Tso Lake

Drive from Lhasa to Gyantse across Tibet’s high plateau, enjoying expansive valley and grassland vistas.
Ascend Khamba La Pass (4,970m) for panoramic views ofYamdrok Tso Lake, framed by snow-capped peaks.
Witness the turquoise glacial waters of Yamdrok Tso, one of Tibet’s most sacred lakes.
Explore Gyantse’s historic town, its monasteries, and traditional Tibetan architecture.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: BLD
Altitude: 4,970 m
Distance: 287 km / 179 miles
Duration: 5 hrs 30 min

Day 8

Drive to Shigatse

ExploreKumbum Stupa at Pelkor Chode Monastery in Gyantse, renowned for its multi-tiered design and intricate murals blending Tibetan, Nepali, and Chinese styles.
Drive from Gyantse to Shigatse along the Yarlung Tsangpo River Valley, passing high-altitude plains, traditional Tibetan villages, and scenic mountain views.
VisitTashilhunpo Monastery, the historic seat of the Panchen Lama, featuring golden rooftops, towering Buddha statues, and ancient prayer halls.
Immerse yourself in Tibet’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage through architecture, art, and local traditions.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: BLD
Altitude: 3,900 m
Distance: 93 km
Duration: 1 hr 50 min

Day 9

Drive to Xegar

Drive from Shigatse to Xegar (New Tingri) across the vast Tibetan plateau, passing rugged terrain, nomadic pastures, and snow-capped peaks.
VisitSakya Monastery, the mother monastery of the Sakya school, renowned for its gray-and-white striped walls, ancient scriptures, murals, and sacred relics.
Traverse high-altitude passes offering panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayas.
Arrive at Xegar and settle into atented camp amidst dramatic mountain landscapes.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: BLD
Altitude: 3,500 m
Distance: 238 km
Duration: 4 hrs

Day 10

Drive to Rongbuk (Rongpu / Dzarongpu Monastery) (5000m)

Drive from Xegar toRongbuk (Dzarongpu) Monastery) across Tibet’s high-altitude plateau, passing windswept plains, deep valleys, and snow-capped peaks.
ExploreRongbuk Monastery, one of the world’s highest monasteries, founded by Nyingma master Ngawang Tenzin Norbu, and a spiritual sanctuary for monks and nuns.
Witness traditional Tibetan architecture adorned with prayer wheels, fluttering flags, and intricate murals depicting Buddhist deities.
Enjoy stunning views of Mount Everest’s northern face and the surrounding glacial landscapes.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: BLD
Altitude: 5,000 m
Distance: 108 km
Duration: 2 hrs 40 min

Day 11

Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,200m)

Trek from Rongbuk Monastery toEverest Base Camp (5,200m) through Tibet’s high-altitude wilderness.
Traverse rugged moraines, glacial debris, and windswept plains with panoramic views of Everest’s towering north face.
Observe Tibetan herders and yak pastures, experiencing life in this extreme Himalayan environment.
Reach the legendary Base Camp, the starting point for mountaineers ascending Mount Everest.
Spend the night in atented camp under a star-filled sky, with Chomolungma overlooking the landscape.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: BLD
Altitude: 5,200 m
Distance: 8 km
Duration: 3–4 hrs

Day 12

Acclimatization at Everest Base Camp

Spend a full dayacclimatizing at Everest Base Camp (5,200m) to adjust to high-altitude conditions.
Enjoy panoramic views of Everest’s north face, hanging glaciers, and expansive glacial landscapes.
Take short exploratory hikes to experience the raw Himalayan environment and its resilient ecosystem.
Absorb the spiritual serenity and majestic grandeur of the world’s highest peak.
Witness stunning sunsets casting golden hues over Everest’s icy slopes.
Accommodation Tented Camp
Meals: BLD
Altitude: 5,200 m

Day 13

Trek to Camp I (5,460m)

Trek from Everest Base Camp toCamp I (5,460m) through rugged moraines, jagged rocks, and windswept valleys.
Experience shifting terrain from glacial expanses to rocky surfaces amid towering Himalayan peaks.
Enjoy panoramic views of Everest and surrounding snow-covered giants.
Witness the harsh yet mesmerizing high-altitude Tibetan landscape with grazing yaks and vast glaciers.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: BLD
Altitude: 5,460 m
Distance: 6 km
Duration: 2–3 hrs

Day 14

Trek to Interim Camp (5,760m)

Ascend from Camp I to Interim Camp (5,760m) across barren, rocky high-altitude terrain with occasional snowfields and glaciers.
Navigate rugged landscapes surrounded by towering peaks, deep crevasses, and expansive glaciers.
Experience the increasing challenges of thin air, strong winds, and the desolate beauty of the Tibetan Plateau.
Immerse in the raw, untouched wilderness beneath the looming shadows of Everest and neighboring peaks.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: BLD
Altitude: 5,760 m
Distance: 3–4 km
Duration: 2–3 hrs

Day 15

Rest Day at Interim Camp

Rest and acclimatize at Interim Camp (5,760m) to prepare for higher-altitude trekking.
Immerse in the rugged wilderness, surrounded by glaciers, barren rock, and dramatic snow-capped peaks, including Everest’s northern face.
Optional side treks offer close-up views of glaciers and rocky outcrops.
Enjoy a peaceful respite in the stark beauty of the Tibetan highlands.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: BLD
Altitude: 5,760 m

Day 16

Trek to Camp II (5,970m)

Trek from Interim Camp to Camp II / Changtse Base Camp (5,970m) through jagged ice formations, glaciers, and rocky terrain.
Navigate the intricate maze of the Changtse Glacier with Everest and Changtse towering above.
Experience the isolation and stark beauty of Tibet’s high-altitude plateau.
Rewarded with panoramic views of Everest’s northern face and surrounding glaciers.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: BLD
Altitude: 5,970 m
Distance: 5 km
Duration: 3–4 hrs

Day 17

Trek to Everest Advance Base Camp (6,400m) and Return to Camp II

Trek from Interim Camp to Everest Advanced Base Camp (6,400m), the highest point of the expedition.
Navigate steep climbs, rugged terrain, and expansive glaciers across the high-altitude Tibetan plateau.
Enjoy breathtaking views of Everest’s north face and surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Return to Camp II / Changtse Base Camp (5,970m), soaking in the stark beauty and isolation of the wilderness.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: BLD
Altitude: 5,970 m
Distance: 6 km
Duration: 3–4 hrs

Day 18

Trek to Base Camp (5,200m)

Descend from Camp II to Everest Base Camp (5,200m) through rugged, high-altitude terrain with glaciers and rocky paths.
Relish panoramic views of Everest and surrounding peaks while gradually descending to lower altitudes.
Experience the tranquility and vastness of the Tibetan wilderness one final time.
Reflect on the journey and the high-altitude adventure amidst pristine landscapes.
Accommodation: Tented Camp
Meals: BLD
Altitude: 5,970 m
Distance: 14 km
Duration: 5–6 hrs

Day 19

Drive to Nyalam (3750m)

Drive from Everest Base Camp area to Nyalam (3,750m) through high-altitude Tibetan landscapes with deep valleys, rugged cliffs, and sweeping plateau views.
Explore Nyalam’s spiritual heritage, including sites associated with Mahasiddha Yogi Milarepa.
Visit a local monastery preserving Tibetan Buddhist teachings and cultural traditions.
Reflect on the journey while enjoying the serene mountain village atmosphere.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: BLD
Altitude: 3,750 m
Distance: 215 km
Duration: 6–7 hrs

Day 20

Drive to Kathmandu

Drive from Nyalam to Kathmandu, descending from Tibet’s high-altitude deserts to Nepal’s lush valleys and terraced landscapes.
Cross the Friendship Bridge at the Nepal-Tibet border and continue through scenic lower Himalayan terrain.
Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel for rest and reflection.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 215 km
Duration: 5–6 hrs

Day 21

Contingency Day in Kathmandu

Enjoy arest day in Kathmandu to explore the city’s cultural and historic landmarks.
Visit Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Durbar Square, and the bustling Thamel district for shopping and local experiences.
Optional visit to Boudhanath Stupa or enjoy traditional Nepali cuisine.
Gather in the evening for a farewell dinner, celebrating the journey.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 22

Trip Concludes, Departure from Nepal

Airport transfer and departure from Nepal, concluding the journey.
Reflect on the experiences, landscapes, and cultural connections of the trip.
Accommodation: None
Meals: Breakfast

Tour Cost

USD ……. per person

Cost Includes:

All ground transportation, including airport pick-up and transfer services.
4WD Land Cruiser and support truck in Tibet for smooth and comfortable travel.
Guided tours with professional English-speaking local guides in Tibet and Nepal, as outlined in the itinerary.
China visa, permit fees, and all necessary entry permits (excluding photographic fees where applicable).
Flight fare from Kathmandu to Lhasa.
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Tibet on a twin-sharing basis for a comfortable stay.
Meals from Day 9 to Day 21, as specified in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner).
All necessary camping equipment, including kitchen, toilet, shower facilities, camping tents, mattresses, and kitchen utensils.
Well-equipped and insured supporting staff, including the leader, sherpas, cooks, and porters, ensuring a seamless experience.
Yaks to carry luggage and supplies during the trek, offering support along the journey.

Cost Does Not Include:

Nepal re-entry visa fee.
Travel insurance.
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and from Day 4 to Day 8.
Airport departure taxes.
Rescue charges, if required.
Medical expenses in case of treatment.
Yak or horse for personal riding during the trek.
Photographic fees wherever applicable.
Expenses of a personal nature, such as bar bills, laundry, and telephone charges.
Additional costs for hiring a porter or transportation in the event of landslides or road blockages.
Tips and gratuities for staff.

Request Detail Itinerary

Resources

Essential Information

Essential Information Related to Advance Everest base Camp Trek:

A. Must-Bring Documents:
• Valid passport (most recent)
• Passport-size color photos
• Photocopies of your valid passport
• Cashless travel and medical insurance policy
• Health certificate (required)

B. Hotel and Power-Related Matters:
Please note that the infrastructure in certain areas may not be as developed as in other destinations. Expect occasional shortages of water and power, with water available only at specific times. Some hotels may not have generator facilities, but candles will be provided during power failures.

C. Flight Details:
Kindly send us your flight details immediately after booking. Any last-minute changes should be communicated promptly via email to ensure timely airport pickup in Kathmandu. Look for the Karnali Excursions signboard upon arrival.

D. Passport and Visa-Related Information:
Foreign passport holders must have a valid visa for Nepal (at least 8 months). You can obtain this from your nearest Nepal Embassy or Consulate, or upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport. For more details, visit Nepal Immigration.

E. Remaining Balance:
The remaining balance should be paid in USD or GBP (cash) upon arrival in Kathmandu. Unfortunately, personal cheques are not accepted.

F. Additional Funds:
Please plan to bring approximately USD 1000 or GBP 800 per person for personal expenses, such as phone calls, mineral water, souvenirs, tips, etc.

G. Travel Insurance – Mandatory:
All participants must carry cashless travel insurance that covers emergency rescue (both air and ground), repatriation, tour cancellation, and medical expenses. Bring two hard copies of your insurance policy with the policy number and emergency contact details.

H. Health and Medical Preparation:
While most of the trip will be by vehicle, all participants must be in good health. If you have chronic health conditions, consult with your doctor before departure. Medical facilities will be available throughout the journey, and a first aid kit will be provided. Regular exercise and staying hydrated (at least 3 liters of water daily) will help you stay in good shape during the Trekking.

I. Karnali Staff:
Karnali Excursions employs only experienced professional staff with years of successful leadership in India, Tibet, and Nepal’s Himalayan regions. Every group will have an experienced guide fluent in English and Hindi to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

J. Risk and Liabilities:
While Karnali Excursions will make every effort to ensure your journey is smooth and pleasant, please understand that all programs in Nepal are governed by local regulations. We are not responsible for any changes due to unforeseen circumstances, such as government restrictions, landslides, road blockages, flooding, snowfall, political disturbances, or accidents. Any additional costs incurred due to such circumstances will be the responsibility of the participants.

K. Travel Logistics:
• Airport Pickup/Drop-off: You will be picked up and dropped off at the airport. Please provide your flight details in advance.
• Luggage: You will be provided a duffle bag for the duration of the trek. Store your main baggage at the hotel. Ensure your personal valuables are in your rucksack.
• Supplies: Bring snacks and minimal supplies in your rucksack for convenience.
• Power Adapters: Bring a suitable adapter for 220-240 volts for electronic devices.
• Communication: Wi-Fi is available throughout the Trek. You can buy a local e/SIM card at the airport or use your home-based cell phone (ensure international roaming is activated).

L. Important Preparation Tips for a Successful Yatra:
• Practice hiking and breathing exercises to enhance your endurance.
• Maintain a healthy habit of drinking at least 3 liters of water per day.
• Stay mentally focused and physically prepared for the journey of a lifetime.
Download Preparation Guide
Recommended Readings

Recommended Readings

01.

Into Thin Air
by Jon Krakauer

03.

Everest, A Trekkers’ Guide
by Kev Reynolds

05.

Nepal Himalayas
by Shirahata Shiro

07.

Frommer’s Nepal by Karl Samson

09.

Nepal: An Essential Handbook for Trekkers
by Amy R. Kaplan, Michael Keller

11.

The Pocket Doctor
by Stephen Bezruchka

13.

Pocket First Aid and Wilderness Medicine
by Dr. Jim Duff & Dr. Peter Gormly

15.

Lonely Planet Nepal
by Lonely Planet

02.

Trekking in the Everest
by Jamie Mc Guinness

04.

Sagarmatha, Mother of the Universe: The story of Mt.Everest National Park
by Jefferies & Clarbrough Margaret

06.

The Rough Guide to Nepal by David Reed

08.

Trekking in the Nepal Himalaya by Stan Armington

10.

Trekking in Nepal by Antoine d’ Abbundo

12.

Mountain Sickness by Peter Hackett

14.

Rough Guide to Nepal by Rough Guides

16.

Nepal (Insight Guides) by Insight Guides

Trip Extension

Chitwan National Park (2 Nights/3 Days)

Experience an exhilarating jungle safari inside Chitwan National Park.
Encounter one-horned rhino, Bengal tiger, and gharial.
Immerse in authentic Tharu culture and their performative arts.

Bardiya National Park (2 Days/3 Nights OR 3 Nights/4 Days)

Explore one of Nepal’s most pristine wilderness areas, home to tigers, elephants, and rich biodiversity.
Experience guided jungle walks, jeep safaris, and tranquil Karnali River.
Immerse in Tharu culture with authentic village visits and traditional hospitality.

Lumbini Cultural Tour (2 Days)

Visit the Maya Devi Temple and sacred Marker Stone at the birthplace of Buddha.
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site and Several Buddhist monasteries.
Discover ancient archaeological sites of Tilaurakot and Ramagrama.
Meditate in the sacred garden and pond of Lumbini.
Gain deep cultural and historical insight with expert-guided tours across the Greater Lumbini Region.

Bhotekoshi Rafting (2 Days)

Experience thrilling Class III–IV rapids on one of Nepal’s steepest and most exciting rafting rivers.
Enjoy dramatic mountain scenery and pristine river gorges throughout the adventure.
Stay overnight in a comfortable riverside camp with great food and expert rafting guides.

Trishuli Rafting (Day Tour)

Enjoy a fun-filled rafting experience with moderate rapids.
Glide through scenic valleys, terraced hillsides, and impressive rock formations along the Trishuli River.
Benefit from expert safety instruction and a well-coordinated day trip with professional rafting guides.

Himalayan Panorama Flight

Experience breathtaking aerial views of the world’s highest Himalayan peaks, including Everest and Annapurna.
Enjoy a safe, comfortable, and scenic Himalayan flight.
Capture stunning close view photographs of snow-capped ranges, glaciers and diverse landscape.

Breakfast Gazing Everest

Enjoy delightful breakfast with uninterrupted panoramic views of Mt. Everest.
Enjoy a serene, exclusive experience at a scenic viewpoint.
Capture unforgettable memory of the world’s highest peak.

Authentic Nepal Cultural Tour: Barahakshetra, Janakpurdham, Chitwan & Lumbini

Explore the sacred heritage of Barahakshetra and Kaushiki Region.
Discover the cultural and religious significance of Janakpurdham, the birthplace of Sita.
Immerse in the rich biodiversity and wildlife of Chitwan National Park.
Visit Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, with its monasteries and stupas.
Experience authentic Nepali culture through local traditions, cuisine, and colorful lifestyles.

Bhutan Kora Tour (5 Days)