Everest Base Camp Trek By Road (Without Flight)

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Recommended by 99% of travelers
At a Glance
14 Days
Duration
Moderate to Strenuous
Trip Grade
Nepal
Country
5,550m
Maximum Altitude
2-3
Group Size
Thamdanda
Starts
Sept - Nov and Mar - May
Best Time
Overview

One of the best ways to see Mt. Everest and the surrounding Himalayan scenery is to take the Everest Base Camp Trek by road, which is unaffected by Lukla flights. This is an alternative, safe way to reach Mt. Everest Base Camp since the regular flight to Lukla might be delayed for a few hours to a few days due to unpredictable weather in the high mountains. Everest Base Camp Trek by Road has completed an exciting package for trekkers who love to have adventurous experiences in the Himalayas. The trip commences at Surke (2,290 m) after a long Jeep drive from Kathmandu, full of curiosity through the beautiful landscape, and concludes at the same point at Surke after exploring Sagarmatha's UNESCO World Heritage Site, unique Sherpa culture, warm hospitality, and wonderful snowcapped mountains, including Mt. Everest (8,848.86 m). 

If you are looking for an alternative way to reach Everest Base Camp and to escape a scary thrill ride to Lukla, then we at Nepal Mother House Treks are glad to organize your Everest Base Camp Trek by Jeep drive. This trip does not only make you excited, but it is also a way to save some money while escaping the Lukla flight, and you have much more experience of various landscapes, cultures, and people's livelihoods while driving. Likewise, this is the best way to acclimatize before getting to the base of the mighty peak, Everest.  In contrast to a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, your body strengthens its resistance to altitude sickness while you drive a Jeep through the lowlands.

Almost all trekking agencies have introduced the Everest Base Camp Trek, a flight from Kathmandu/Ramechhap to Lukla. However, due to flight delays, you may not always finish the trip on schedule and may even encounter unintended issues while traveling. Thus, Nepal Mother House Treks has offered here a hassle-free road alternative trail to the EBC that accounted for the weather at the Lukla Airport and flights from Kathmandu.

This Everest Base Camp Trek by Drive package has been thoughtfully created based on insightful suggestions and comments from our esteemed guests. Thus, the trek will start with a drive from Kathmandu to Lukla by bus or Jeep and end at the same location in Surke with an exhilarating Jeep drive. You will gain a tremendous deal of experience in the Himalayas, learning about the distinctive culture and religious beliefs of the Sherpas as well as the breathtaking mountain scenery, icefall, glacier marine, and Mother Nature of the Himalayas.

Is it possible to drive to Lukla for the trek to Everest Base Camp?

The road to Everest Base Camp was recently constructed all the way to the Surke (2,290 m), below the Luka "gateway of Mt. Everest." It takes forty-five minutes to an hour to walk to get in Luka. The distance on the road, which runs through the BP Highway and Tourism Highway—also referred to as the Everest Express Highway—between Kathmandu and Lukla is 366.9 km, with a total of 363.9 km of completed road track. According to the local government, "Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality" has announced the completion of the remaining road from Surke to Lukla within the fiscal years. Normally, the drive from Kathmandu to Lukla at Surke takes 17 to 18 hours. However, due to traffic and road conditions, it can take 9 to 10 hours to travel from Kathmandu to Salleri/Phaplu, and then another 7 to 8 hours to travel from Salleri to Surke. If it is too late to drive Surke in one day or not enough passengers, then the jeep might stop overnight at Salleri or Jubing, Kharikhola, according to what time it gets there. Then drive the next early morning drive to the Jeep destination at Surke; you won't be overlapping in your schedule due to getting in Phakding or Manjo on the same day driving to Surke. Please go through the Kathmandu to Lukla Jeep Drive if you require any additional information about the route, the time, or the Jeep.

Ideal Time of Year to Trek to Everest Base Camp Without Flying to Lukla

The best seasons to drive to Everest Base Camp or go without air travel for a 14-day trek are typically spring (March, April, and May) and fall (September, October, and November). These seasons are considered the best due to their perfect weather—no clouds, excellent visibility, a picturesque vista, and a safe path. At a low altitude, it will not be very hot or cold. One of the greatest seasons to hike Mount Everest is now. Driving is possible on the road from Kathmandu to Lukla/Suirke during both the dry season and the winter.

Early December and late February are also considered to be the best times to visit Everest Base Camp if you are traveling there with a group of hikers. However, because of the cold and the higher likelihood of snowfall, winters in the highlands will be difficult. Likewise, summer is challenging and not safe to walk due to a lot of rain and poor weather. Although there is road access nowadays, if you are looking for the best mountain sceneryto avoid the crowds of trekkers, then winter is also perfect to visit Everest Base Camp.

Likewise, the monsoon is also the best way to explore in the Everest region. You will witness the highlander Sherpa's culture, livelihood, animal husbandry, vegetation with colorful flowers, and traditional organic farming methods. Often, you can see the mountain scenery like an open cartoon at the window. Visit Mount Everest in the monsoon; it is ideal to connect to the local people and observe the flora and fauna in the region. This time would be perfect for the researcher and student group. You must prepare gear well for the rain.

What is the difficulty level of the Everest Base Camp Trek?

According to American author, salesman, and inspirational and motivational speaker Zig Ziglar's “Difficult Roads Often Lead to Beautiful Destinations," these quotes match the Everest Base Camp trek too. There are many obstacles present before you get to your destination.

For the past two weeks, the Everest Base Camp trek's difficulty level has been moderate. However, this trek doesn’t require prior trekking experience, but you should be physically fit, have strong determination, and make a list of suitable trekking gear for Everest. The EBC trek is also accessible to novice hikers without any difficulties. Your objective is to arrive at the base of Mount Everest, take in the breathtaking view of the world's highest point, and see the Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu Icefall. The law of attraction states that everything comes to those who focus on it. It is a lengthy drive from Kathmandu to Surke by jeep, taking 17 to 18 hours at the start of the trip, with a bending peach road leading to the Salleri (2,390 m) and the remaining rough road in various terrains. Hence, you are not experiencing any difficulties during this trek.

Those who can handle long road trips and are physically fit are the ones we at Nepal Mother House Treks advise. Given the length, we recommend dividing the Kathmandu-Surke, taking two days for the comfortable journey. It takes nine or ten hours to drive from Kathmandu to Salleri, where one spends the night. Drive from Salleri to Surke for six to seven hours the following morning, and then walk to Surke/Chaurikhartka to spend the night.

What Sort of Food Can You Get on the Jeep Trekking Everest Base Camp Trek?

Food is the most important thing for the Everest Base Camp Trek; nourishment is something that you can’t compromise about. There are a variety of food options throughout the entire Everest Base Camp Trek Without Flight To Lukla; you can get typical Nepal Dhal-Bhat, soups, snacks, momos, fried noodles, fried rice, Chinese, and continental dishes like noodles, spaghetti, spring rolls, pizza, and steak, etc. You can pick the food items from menu cards at every tea house. Normally, you will have dinner and breakfast at the hotel/teahouse where you stayed overnight and take lunch at the teahouse on the way to today's trip. The cost of the food escalated with the elevation gain, necessitating transportation by porters, mules, yaks, or helicopter charters from Kathmandu to Lukla. However, the price of the food doesn’t change according to the season. Some places, like Lukla, Phakding, Namche, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Labuche, will also find bakery items in modern restaurants. You may take different tests of Nepalese food on the way while driving from Kathmandu to Lukla. 

Accommodation During Everest Base Camp Trek by Road

The tourist industry is growing rapidly in Nepal. The towering snowcapped peak, Mother Nature, people's culture, and religious hormones attract millions of tourists every year. Nepal has eight out of the 10 highest mountains in the world. Nowadays, trekkers have many choices for accommodation during the entire Everest Base Camp Trek Without a Flight to Lukla. There is a basic tea house with dormitory rooms and luxury five-star hotel amenities on the trip. The most popular trekking trails, Gokyo Valley Trek and Everest Renjola Pass Trek, provide basic, comfortable, and clean accommodations. Most tea houses have indoor toilets and bathrooms, but some offer the best room with a heater, an attached bathroom with a hot shower, and a toilet.

Lukla, Phakding, Namche Bazaar, and Labuche have everything from simple accommodations in a tea house to fancy accommodations in luxury hotels. We make reservations for group trekkers a few weeks in advance, as the entire hotel becomes overbooked during the trekking season in spring (March, April, and May) and autumn (September, October, and November).  Likewise, in the Tengboche, Lobuche does not have enough accommodation for the peak season. The cost of the room will be different based on its facilities, services, and location. If you are seeing some important tips for the Everest Base Camp Trek, this will be a great support to make your trip successful. 

If you have a time limit, although you like to do the Everest Base Camp Trek by road, you can drive from Kathmandu to Lukla (Paiya) at the beginning and fly back to Kathmandu from Lukla at the end of the trek, if possible, in 13 days. Please refer to the itinerary provided below for further details. 

Everest Base Camp Trek Suggested Itinerary: 13 Days, One-Way Flight 2024

Day 01: Drive Kathmandu to Salleri (2,390 m) -9 to 10 hours

Day 02: Drive Salleri to Surke (2,290 m) -7 to 8 hours & Trek Surke to Phakding -4 to 5 hours

Day 03: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,430 m) -5 to 6 hours, 

Day 04: Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar and visit Khumjung Village (3,790 m) and Everest View Hotel (3,880 m)

Day 05: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,867 m) -5 to 6 hours

Day 06: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410 m) -5 to 6 hours

Day 07: Acclimatization and Explore day at Dingboche; visit Nangkartshang peak (5,615 m)

Day 08: Dingboche to Lobuche (4,930 m) -5 to 6 hours

Day 09: Lobuche to Gorakshep (5,140 m) (3 hours) & Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) (2 to 3 hours)

Day 10: Gorakshep to Kalapatthar (5,550 m) in 2 hours & Stroll back to Pheriche (4,240 m) in 4 to 5 hours

Day 11: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar (3430 m): 7 to 8 hours

Day 12: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,800 m): 6 to 7 hours

Day 13: Fly back to Kathmandu (1350 m) for 30 minutes and enjoy the rest of the day.

Can You Go from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp by Road?

As you are aware, the road leads to Mt. Everest's Base Camp, also known as Qomolangma in Tibetan, on the mountain's north side in China. Similarly, construction of the Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp Road has also taken place on the Nepal side.  However, the majority of the trail to the Everest Base Camp is located within the Sagarmatha National Park, making it only accessible from Kathmandu to Lukla.  Currently, it is possible to drive from Kathmandu to Luka by Jeep or bus at Thamdanda (4 to 5 hours walk below the Lukla) through the Sindhuli Khurkot BP Highway and get to Salleri (2,390 m), the headquarters of the Solukhumbu. Then, further along the Salleri road, cross the Kharikhola and get to Paiya, known as Puiyan Village. Recently, there has not been any planning for road access to Everest Base Camp from Kathmandu; however, it is sure that the road track will join Lukla and Chaurikharka in this fiscal year. You can drive from Kathmandu to Surke (2,290 m), taking almost a whole day by jeep.  In response to local demand and tourism, the local government has decided not to extend the road to Everest Base Camp beyond Lukla.

If the Everest Base Camp Trek by Road does not meet your requirements, this alternative Everest region trip itinerary might be of interest to you:

Everest Base Camp Trek With Helicopter Return: 9 Days
Everest Base Camp Trek with Lawudo Retreat: 15 Days
Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek: -12 Days
Everest Three Passes Trek: 21 Days

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Everest Base Camp Trek By Road (Without Flight)
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Everest Base Camp Trek By Road (Without Flight) Itinerary

According to the previous meeting about the trip departure, the guide and porter will come to your hotel early, around 4:30 to 5 AM, and drive by Jeep to the Paiya/Surke/Lukla. Drive through the BP Highway and get to Ghurmi for lunch after a 5-hour drive. From here the road goes along the rivers, rice terraces, green fields, and villages, making our journey more exciting. In an hour's drive from Ghurmi, we get to Salleri (2,390 m) and to Surke (2,290 m) via Puiyan (2,730 m)about 7 to 8 hours off-road. Stay overnight at Tea House.

*Note: Generally, driving from Kathmandu to Paiya/Surke takes 17 to 18 hours by jeep. But sometimes it takes longer than this due to other traffic and road conditions. Likewise, they are collecting other passengers in different hotels and places like you have picked up. So, it takes 9 to 10 hours for the journey from Kathmandu to Salleri/Phaplu and the second part from Salleri to Surke, which takes 7 to 8 hours due to road conditions.

**Note: As this is a very long journey, the Jeep drive might be split into 2 days, and then continue your schedule at Phakding or Manjo for overnight staying.

[Day 01: Drive Kathmandu to Salleri (2,390 m)/Jubing/Kharikhola—9 to 11 hours]—where you can get tea houses for overnight stay.

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 2,290m (7,513ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerDuration: 17 to 18 hoursDistance: 300 KmAccommodation: TeahouseMode of Transportation: Drive

Today, we begin our journey from Surke (2,290 m), the final Jeep station so far. Where you can witness the residence of Pasang Lhamu Sherpa (10 December 1961–22 April 1993), the first Nepalesewoman to climb Everest. Then the trail follows the Dudhkoshi River across the traces and century-old Buddhist Chorten to the Chaurikharka (2,422 m) below the Lukla for about one hour to one and a half hours. After a few minutes walk, you will catch the main trail of Everest Base Camp at Chheplung. Now, you will see a crowd of trekkers coming from the Lukla flight. After another 2 hours of gentle walking through villages, forests, and some long-ass bridges, you will get to the Sherpa's homeland, Phakding, and stay at a teahouse for an overnight stay.

**Note: If yo are staying overnight at Salleri/Jubing/Kharikhola
Day 02: Drive from Salleri to Surke (2,290 m) for 7 to 8 hours and trek from Surke to Phakding for 4 to 5 hours.

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 2,422m (7,946ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerDuration: 7 to 8 hoursDistance: 12KmAccommodation: Tea House

After breakfast, we start a day trip to Namche Bazaar along the riverbank, pass the small settlement Tok Tok, and enter the Sagarmatha National Park at Manjo in 3 hours, where we check in our permits and all crew details, then drop immediately to the Dudhkoshi River and get in Jorshale after crossing the suspension bridge. Today we will hide and seek with the Dudhkoshi River. This is the best place to take lunch, due to not having any tea houses between Namche. Again, cross the bridge at the same river and follow the riverbank to the fifth suspension bridge. The name honors pioneer legend Tenzing Hillary Bridge. Now, walk uphill for around two to three hours to get to Namche Bazaar through the forest and see the first view of the top of the world from the right edge. Enjoy wandering around the wonderful homeland of Sherpa the rest of the day and catch the sunset from the National Park View Point at the top of the town. Stay overnight at the tea house at the naturally blessed Namche Bazaar; witness beautiful mountains.

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 3,430m (11,253ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerDuration: 5 to 6 hoursDistance: 12 KmAccommodation: Tea House

Today is an acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar. After a late breakfast, hike to Hotel Everest View, a five-star hotel located at the highest elevation in the world through the Syangboche Airport. Enjoy eye-catching, stunning mountain views, including Mt. Everest (8,848.86), from the Everest View Hotel, and walk down further to the Khumjung for the ancient monastery with Yeti scalp and visit the Khunde village. Return back to Namche Bazaar for an overnight stay through the twin Sherpa villages of Khumjung and Khunde in two hours. If you are getting to Namche on Saturday, this is a great time to visit the Saturday market on the south edge of Namche, and you may visit the Sherpa museum or hang around the town.

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 3,880m (12,729ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerDuration: 2 to 3 HoursDistance: 6 KmAccommodation: Tea House

Today, the fifth day of the Everest Base Camp Trek started on the road. We are heading to Tengboche past wonderful mountain views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kangtega, getting in the tea house at Khyangjuma, and crossing the trail intersection, one coming from Gokyo Lake and another from Khumjung; however, we head down by the main trail through the alpine forest to the Phungi Tenga after crossing the Dudh Koshi in 3 to 3 ½ hours of walking. This is the best place to take lunch before heading to Tengboche. Now the trail ascends through the jungle; this is the best place to sight the Himalayan Tahr and Himalayan Monals. Finally get to a hill station, Tengboche Monastery, with an astonishing view of Amabadlam, Mt. Everest, Lhotse, etc. Stay overnight in the quiet monastic village, enjoying the view of the mountains from your window.

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 3,867m (12,687ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerDuration: 5 to 6 hoursDistance: 12 KmAccommodation: TeahouseMode of Transportation: Trekking

Your eye will open at dawn with the great vibe of the praying ceremony in the monastery. You may visit the monastery before starting the trip. From here the trail drops down to Dibuche through the jungle, where the most probability to sight rare species of Musk Deer and Daphne/Lophophorus—Nepal’s national bird. Then cross the double décor bridge over Imja Khola and pass the small settlement at Milingo. The view of the Amadablam can be seen much closer as a gigantic trail ascends to the old-age Buddhist Chorten and enters the beautiful gate to get into Pangboche village. Keep continuing through the tree line to small bushes planted at the T. Somare for the lunch stop, taking 3 hours from Tengboche. The walk continues to Dingboche (4,410 m), enjoying the view of the mountains. It takes two to two and a half hours from Somare. As you are at high elevation, measure your oxygen level with the oximeter that we provided to our guide and see how you are feeling. Read more details about AMS.

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 4,410m (14,468ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerDuration: 5 to 6 hoursDistance: 12.5 KmAccommodation: Tea HouseMode of Transportation: Trekking

Today is a second rest day for good acclimatization before heading to EBC. After a late breakfast, we ascend steeply to the hill above the town and follow the ridge to the Nangkartashang Peak (5,083 m) for 2 hours. It is very tough walking to get to the summit; however, the view from the top of the peak is beyond imagination, including Mt. Makalu (8,463 m, the 5th highest mountain in the world), Lhotse (4th highest mountain in the world at 8,516 meters), Cho Oyu (6th highest mountain in the world at 8,201 meters), Ama Dablam (6,856 m), Kangtega (6,685 m), Thamserku (6,608 m), and many other mountains. This is one of the best viewpoints to see the 3 highest mountains listed among the Top 10 Highest Mountains in the World. After taking in the majestic mountains and a panoramic view of the Imza valley, we make our way down to Dingboche for an overnight stay. If you think of climbing, the peak is a lot of work, and then you may hike to Chhukung (4,730 m) or Pheriche Village for the high-altitude sickness lecture in the Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) every day from 3 PM during the peak season.

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 5,083m (16,676ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerDuration: 2 HoursDistance: 6 KmAccommodation: Tea House

Your body will re-energize since the last day acclimatizes and rest day. Today we walk from Dingboche to Lobuche, taking five to six hours above the Periche village. After getting to the top of the ridge above Dingboche, the trail goes through the pasture land with some old huts. It is an enjoyable 3-hour walkabout with an amazing mountain view and has lunch at Thukla (4,620 m) exactly at the edge of the Khumbu Glacier. Then the trail ascends steeply to the Thukla Pass (4,830 m) for 45 minutes, where numerous monuments can be seen that are devoted to the climber who passed away during the expedition, and it offers wonderful scenery, especially Mount Ama Dablam. Another 2-hour walk nearby Khumbu Glacier, and you will be rich in Lobuche for overnight staying.

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 4,930m (16,174ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerDuration: 5 to 6 hoursDistance: 7.8 KmAccommodation: Tea HouseMode of Transportation: Trekking

This is the most important day during your Everest Base Camp trek by road due to reaching your dream place, Mt. Everest Base Camp, today. The trek begins from Lobuche in the morning and heads to Gorakshep (5,140 m), taking 3 hours along the Khumbu Glacier. Then check in at the guest house at Gorakshep and leave all bags and hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) after having lunch. It takes 2 to 3 hours for the EBC from Gorakshep. You are advised to bring enough drinking water, a touch light, and wear warm clothes and other gear while visiting EBC. If you are trekking during the spring season, you can see many expedition groups in the Everest Base Camp; it looks like a mini Thamel. It is worthwhile to see the Khumbu Icefall while walking in the Khumbu Glacier and the mesmerizing mountain view surrounding you. However, Mount Everest itself cannot be seen from the Everest Base Camp. Return back to Gorakshep for an overnight stay. 

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 5,140m (16,863ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerDuration: 3 hoursDistance: 9 KmAccommodation: Tea HouseMode of Transportation: Trekking

Today, early in the morning, you will hike in Kala Patthar (5,550 m) for a sunrise view of amazing mountains: Mt. Everest (8,848.86 m) itself, Mt. Pumari (7,145 m), Lingtren (6,695 m), Khumbutse (6,623 m), Changtse (7,550 m), and Nuptse (7,879 m). If you consider it a spiritual experience, this is a glimpse of heaven. It is quite difficult to get on top of the Kala Patthar, taking 2 hours to steeply ascend; however, you have rewarded it with a lifetime experience and amazing natural beauties. This is the most important viewpoint to see Mt. Everest at the closest distance. Enjoy some time on the top of the Kala Patthar, walk down to Gorakshep for breakfast, and continue to descend to the Pheriche (4 to 5 hours) for an overnight stay.

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 4,240m (13,910ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerDuration: 4 to 5 hoursDistance: 13.5 KmAccommodation: Tea HouseMode of Transportation: Trekking

Today we walk to the Namche Bazaar after breakfast. It is quite a long hike; however, you are enjoying the whole walk, 7 to 8 hours retracing the trail and recapping the view you have seen. Probably, you will have lunch at Phungi Tenga after a 4-hour walk, and after another 3 hours, you will get to Namche Bazaar for the overnight stay at the Tea House.

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 3,430m (11,253ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerDuration: 7 to 8 hoursDistance: 12.5 KmAccommodation: Tea HouseMode of Transportation: Trekking

This is also a long walk to the Surke (2,290 m) via Chaurikharka; it takes 7 to 8 hours. Most of the trail descends along the Dudhkoshi River with jungle and Sherpa settlements. Re-catch the landscape and mountain scenery along the way back to Chaurikharka (2,694 m) and Surke. You have a different view from opposite directions. If you are curious about the most exciting airport in the world, after getting into the teahouse, you can get to Lukla in a 20-minute walking distance from Chaurikharka. After getting into the tea house at Surke, our guide will reconfirmJeep tickets for the Kathmandu drive for the next morning. As this is the last trekking day, you will have dinner together with your crew members and celebrate with great joy. We are staying overnight at the tea house.

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 2,290m (7,513ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerDuration: 7 to 8 hourDistance: 19 KmAccommodation: Tea HouseMode of Transportation: Trekking

This is your last day of the Everest Base Camp Trek. After having breakfast, you will drive back to Salleri in about 7 to 8 hours via Puiyan (2,730 m), Thamdanda, Kharikhola, Jubing (1,680 m). Stay at the tea house overnight.

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 2,390m (7,841ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerDuration: 7 to 8 hoursAccommodation: Tea HouseMode of Transportation: Trek

Today, you will get up early in the morning and drive back to Kathmandu in a four-wheeler Jeep, recapping the scenery. Get to Kathmandu in the evening and stay overnight at the hotel for your next destination.

*Note: The sharing Jeep from Surke to Kathmandu depends on passenger availability. Sometimes, there is not availability directly from Jeep to Kathmandu on the same day. So, you need to split it into two parts: first, drive 7 to 8 hours at Salleri for an overnight stay, then drive back to Kathmandu the next morning for about 9 to 10 hours.

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 1,350m (4,429ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerDuration: 9 to 10 hoursMode of Transportation: Drive
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Included

Everest Base Camp Trek By Road (Without Flight) Cost Details

Includes

  • Free airport picks up and drops off all transportation (airport to hotel to airport).
  • I have the necessary paperwork and trekking permit for Sagarmatha National Park.
  • Local Government fee of Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality/TIMS Cards (Trekkers Information Management System)
  • You can take a local bus or jeep from Kathmandu to Salleri, then to Thamdanda/Paiya/Surke, and back to Kathmandu.
  • If necessary, carry trekking equipment such as worn-down jackets, sleeping bags, and duffle bags during the trek.
  • Nepal Mother House T-shirt/Cap and Appreciation Card for Mount Everest Base Camp Trip.
  • There were three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • Soft & comfortable private accommodation in the entire Mountain The entire mountain is shared with double/twin beds and a shared toilet.
  • An English-speaking, friendly guide with a government license is available to assist with food, accommodation, transportation, salary, and equipment.
  • Guide insurance for their delighted journey.
  • A Trekking Map of an Everest Base Camp Trip for a Group.
  • We will be providing supplemental snacks (cookies, fresh fruits) on the trek.
  • If the group size exceeds 10, an additional Sherpa (assistance guide) will be provided. They are also responsible for providing food, accommodation, wages, insurance, and equipment.
  • The first-aid medical kit is provided during the trip, along with a welcome and farewell program.
  • The tourist service charge, VAT, government tax, and official expense are included if necessary.

Excludes

  • We provide drinking water, tea, coffee, chocolate, cookies, dessert, phone calls, laundry, and hot showers, along with a variety of hot and cold beverages during the hike.
  • The guest (yours) is required to have travel insurance and evacuation coverage.
  • In the event of a flight cancellation, a charter helicopter or plane will take over.
  • If you require a porter (for a minimum of two people), ensure they can carry a maximum of 20–25 kg. This does not include the cost of their food, accommodation, wages, insurance, or any necessary transportation.
  • Tipping for Guide & Porters: Tips for guides and porters (15% of wages is considered fair)
  • We will arrange your meals and accommodation at Kathmandu.
  • Personal expenses include things like shopping, souvenirs or gifts, and personal mountaineering gear.
  • There will be optional trips and sightseeing if the stay is extended.
  • The package includes international airfare, airport departure tax, and visa fee.
  • Things that are not mentioned above our services.
  • The visa fee can be easily obtained upon arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu.
Availability

Departure Dates

Except for the fixed departure date, we have every-day departures according to your requirements during the trekking peak season. Check below for available trip departure dates and costs for the Everest Base Camp Trek.

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Add-Ons

Add-Ons & Options

  • Kathmandu/Ramechhap toLukla Regular Flight:$ 217 per person
  • Helicopter Flight from EBC to Kathmandu: Only $1300 per Person
  • Take a Flight from Gorakshep to Lukla! Helicopter Adventure at $900 per Person
  • Comfortable Accommodation Entire Trek: $ 585 for 13 Nights for two people.
  • Hire a Porter for Just $23 a Day! (2:1 Porter) who carries 20-25 kg, may share porter with friends. 
  • Embark on a Thrilling 2-night 3-day Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour for Only $280 per Person

You may fly one way Lukla/Ramechhap to KTM for lifetime Exciting

For your lifetime Trip to the Mount Everest Base camp, enjoy a bird's eye view of your footprint by shared helicopter.

No need to retrace the trail back to Lukla and enjoy a lifetime helicopter flight to reduce the trip days & mesmerizing view.

Accommodation with a private bathroom, and hot shower on trek.

2:1 porter, who carries 20 - 25 kg including his own 4 to 5 kg personal gear. You may share the porter cost with your trekking fellow.

Witness endangered wildlife and immerse in Tharu culture. Book now for a 2-night 3-day Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour at just $280/person, inclusive of round-trip tourist bus transport.

Good to Know

Essential Information

How many passengers are in a Jeep while driving from Kathmandu to Lukla at Surke via Salleri?

Usually used as a substitute for flying straight to Lukla, the drive from Kathmandu to Surke via Salleri is an exciting and picturesque one. Here is some particular information on the Jeep's passenger count and drive comfort degree:

Number of Passengers in a Jeep

Standard Jeep Capacity: Apart from the driver, a normal Jeep utilized for this route may carry 10 people including the driver.

  • Front seat: Two people—including the driver—make up the front seat.
  • Middle Row: Four people.
  • Back Row: Four travelers.

Depending on the weight and size, passengers typically pack their bags in the rear or fastened to the Jeep's roof under weatherproof covers.

Is it Comfort Drive to Lukla during Everest Bas ecamp Trek?

Comfort Level: Moderate to Uncomfortable

  • Covering difficult, rocky, and off-road territory, the drive takes sixteen to eighteen hours.
  • Particularly for taller passengers, limited legroom and close seating might be uncomfortable.
  • Motion sickness could result from the dusty and meandering road.
  • Although shared jeeps are packed, renting a private jeep increases comfort.

Although the route from Kathmandu to Lukla via Salleri and Surke is picturesque but difficult, comfort levels might vary based on numerous elements.

1. Road Conditions to Surke and Lukla

Particularly after Salleri, the route is essentially dirt, bumpy, and uneven. The ride may be rough and bumpy in some areas with sharp curves, limited pathways, and steep hills.

Landslides and muddy roads and winter (late December to February) are slippery and muddy might further impede travel during the monsoon season (June–September).

2. Drive Duration from Kathmandu to Lukla

From Kathmandu to Salleri, the drive takes nine to ten hours; from Salleri to Surke, it takes seven to eight hours. Considering the lunch break and other pauses, the trip takes sixteen to eighteen hours overall. For passengers, the length and the rocky ride might be exhausting.

3. States of Vehicle Condition while drive to Lukla for EBC Trek

The state of the Jeep determines the comfort degree most of the time. Older jeeps can have inadequate suspension, which would make the ride uncomfortable.

Modern, well-kept Jeeps with improved seating and suspension can offer a rather smoother ride.

4. Scenery Can be seen during Lukla Drive:

Notwithstanding the difficulties, the drive provides amazing vistas of the Himalayan scene including Mt. Everest, views from Dhap, and Pattale Village, terraced fields, and ancient towns.
The ride's uncomfortable nature can be offset by the breathtaking scenery.

5. Passenger Arrangement 

Generally speaking, the front seat is more pleasant than the rear since the latter seats feel more vibrations and shocks.
A completely packed Jeep could feel small and less pleasant to ride in.

Tips for a More Comfortable Drive

Choose a trustworthy operator. Plan a Jeep with a respectable travel agency to ensure the driver's experience and the state of the car.
Ask to be seated in the front if at all feasible for a more seamless ride.
Pack light to help the Jeep not to get crowded.
Plan rest stops along the journey to stretch and unwind.

Get ready for the weather. Bring warm clothes since higher elevations cause rather dramatic temperature drops.

How to Make the  Lukla Drive Journey Better?

  • Plan an additional seat for more room.
  • Take a dust mask and a neck cushion.
  • To maximize legroom, travel light-minded.
  • If comfort rules think about flying to Lukla.

Would you like help with alternative routes or a private jeep option?

Alternative Options

Should comfort be your main concern, take into account these substitutes:

Take Flight Kathmandu to Lukla: Though prices are weather-dependent, the fastest and most pleasant way to get from Kathmandu to Lukla is by 25-minute flight.
Helicopter to Lukla: Pricier but more opulent than flying or driving is helicopter to Lukla.

Start your helicopter to Lukla: if you would want to skip the rough ride from Salleri to Surke. This would add a few extra days to your trip but is a more immersive experience.

Although the drive from Kathmandu to Surke via Salleri is an exciting and picturesque one, long hours and poor road conditions might cause discomfort. Although the ride is bumpy, a regular Jeep fits nine to ten people and the breathtaking vistas and sense of adventure make the trip unforgettable.

Should comfort be your first concern, think about flying to Lukla or choosing a helicopter transport. Tell me whether you require further details or support, please.

  • Full of an Exciting Adventure for a Lifetime.
  • The journey from Kathmandu to Paiya to Kathmandu by Jeep was exciting.
  • The best way to reach Everest Base Camp without fear is Lukla Flight Save a huge amount of Money.
  • Well acclimatize and boost your body; get in Everest Base Camp without struggle.
  • World-acclaimed Peaks: Mt. Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, etc.
  • Climb the most popular viewpoint—Kala Patthar (5,555 m)—to peek into Everest.
  • Observe Diverse Vegetation: Rhododendrons, Pine, Oaks, Magnolia, Etc.
  • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sagarmatha National Park.
  • Chance Sight of Rare Animals: Musk Deer, Snow Leopard, Red Panda, Etc.
  • Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,360 m) and see the Khumbu Ice Fall, Glacier.
  • Experience the Sherpa's unique culture.
  • Explore the beautiful Salleri Village.
  • Escape the thrilling Lukla flight and save money.

*Notification Regarding An Issue with the Kathmandu to Lukla Flight

The Nepali government has announced a Lukla flight from Manthali to Ramechhap due to heavy air traffic at Kathmandu's TribhuvanInternational Airport (TIA). Ramechhap will serve as the flight to the operational base in Lukla in the interim. The drive from Kathmandu to Ramechhap, located 139 km to the east-north, takes four to five hours.

Alternatively, for an additional $500 US per person, you could arrange a five-person helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Luka, allowing you to make one flight from an airplane to a helicopter. We cannot guarantee that groups will form at the airport for the helicopter flight, even though we will work with the airline to make every effort to make this happen. Flying to Lukla from Manathali airport is almost always guaranteed, unless sometimes the flight is delayed or canceled due to unfavorable weather at Lukla.

If possible disruptions or delays affect any flights to or from Lukla, travelers should advise us of their preferred alternative flights. For more details, please review the Ramechhap to Lukla flight.

**Note: Due to bad weather, internal flights to and from Lukla may occasionally experience delays of several hours or complete cancellation. It is incredibly rare, but given how climate change is affecting the world, it might even happen during the best trekking season. Because of this, we always recommend, if at all possible, spending an additional night in Kathmandu after your trek to the base camp (just in case). You will have an extra day at the hotel if everything goes as planned. During this time, you can engage in any extra activities you choose, like shopping, rafting, and sightseeing.

If you will not be using a porter for the journey, the trekking cost will decrease from the original amount. The Nepal Mother House provides some tips on how to cut costs if you are traveling alone. If you would like further information about your needs, please email us.

Trip FAQs

Everest Base Camp Trek By Road (Without Flight) FAQs

If we go back to the last couple of years, it is safe to drive to Thamdanda. although it is mostly off-road after Salleri. The driver is very experienced on this route and often servicing the jeep. Let’s think of good things, then everything will go perfectly. “The Law of Attraction”
 

Autumn and spring are considered the best time for the trek in Nepal. The weather is perfect with a clear sky and either cold or hot with stable weather. So, I believe it will be good weather entire your trip. If in case, you get back to Kathmandu delayed due to bad weather, then taking a drive is much more reliable than a flight. Sometimes Lukla's flight might be delayed one day to many days, two years ago, the flight was canceled for 13 days due to weather. And during the trekking peak season, there won’t be a Lukla to KTM direct flight, all the flights will divert to Manthali airport at Ramechhap. It is 4 to 5 hours drive from Kathmandu to get to Ramechhap airport. So, you are suggested to put in at least one or two days extra to get back in Kathmandu, this will help to catch your further schedule.  
 

Yes, for the Nepal visa, you can get on arrival at Kathmandu Airport per day 3 USD or an equivalent amount of NPR.

Nowadays you can apply for Nepal Visa online before departure from home, after successfully submitting documents, please bring with you a copy of the submission paper, this helps you to get a Visa easily while arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA).

We chose tea houses in each of the places according to our Guest feedback, Snow Land Hotel at Gorakshep is Good so far. But if you would like to stay at others like Hotel Everest Inn, Yeti Resort, Himalayan Lodge, and Buddha Lodge at Gorekshep, you can stay.
 

Yes, You can choose meals (main course) from Menu cards whatever you like to have as available in the tea house. But for dessert and hot/cold drinks, you need to take care of it, which is mentation in services also. 
 

Thank you very much for your message. I believe you are physically fit and mentally well-prepared for the dream trip to Mt. Everest Base Camp. As you are coming on March 20, 2024, this is the perfect time for the Everest Base camp trek. The weather is stable with a clear sky and an amazing view. I hope the weather will be favorable entire trip and you will complete the trip without any interruption. If in case, if anyone becomes ill at that time we (our Guide) will immediately bring to him at the health post/hospital/Clinic whatever is available in the region for treatment. Then after that, we will listen to the sick person's health for a few hours a day and also follow the guidelines of the local specialist/Doctor. Depending on the situation of sick people, either to carried by porter/horse/Yak to a safe place and medical procedures. If it has become complicated then, needs to be evacuated by Helicopter for hospitalization. So, we would like to suggest you, buy travel insurance which covers up to 5,500 meters of elevation for emergency rescue and treatments. Let’s think positive way, everything will go perfectly. “The Law of Attraction”. 
 

You can start to trek whenever you have time, however, drive to Salelri and Thamdanda and back to Kathmandu by sharing a Jeep. If you start trekking on main festivals time (like Dashain and Tihar, commonly fall on mid october to Mid of November) will be complicated due to many people being back home for festivals. I will let you know when the Nepali calendar is published after 3 months. I would like to inform you, that we have a different date: today is 2080/09/19 B.Swhereas 2024/01.05 AD.