The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most famous and sought-after trekking journeys to do in Nepal. People from far and wide visit Nepal to do the trek that leads to the base camp of the world’s tallest mountain peak. It is a moderately easy journey that has trails going through many ethnic Sherpa villages and settlements. Destinations like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche and many others are explored during the trip. It is a great experience that incorporates the best highlights and features of the beautiful Khumbu region. From the diverse landscape to the culturally rich atmosphere, the Khumbu is a place in Nepal that is directly associated with the cerulean Himalayas of the country. It really isn’t necessary for you to have prior experience with trekking to do this journey. Albeit it having long hours of trekking per day from one location to the next, preparation of the trek prior to doing it really helps in the success of the journey. There are various factors to consider while doing the Everest Base Camp Trek. Here are some that warrant your attention if you are planning on doing the journey anytime soon-
- Best Time to do the Trip
The best time to do EBC Trekking is during the seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to December). These two seasons offer the best atmospheric features for an enjoyable and visually appealing trek in the Khumbu. Summer and winter trekking can also be done; however, they are generally not recommended on account for the fact that summer monsoons make the trekking trails wet and slippery while clouds block most of the Himalayan views and winters see the accumulation of heavy snow at certain paths that block further progress. But still, trekking can still be actively done at all times of the year.
- Equipments and Packing
It is of no surprise that bag-packing as light as possible is the best way to go about any adventure, and the same applies for EBC Trekking as well. In the mountains while trekking, trekkers can hire porters to carry the bag-packs. Generally, a porter is capable of carrying about 10 to 12 kilograms of weight maximum from a single person. Their consideration is also important while packing for the trip. Taking a heavy bag-pack with unnecessary things during the trip is strongly advised against, as not only does this create a hassle, but doing so also increases the chance of losing things. Important trekking equipments include a good pair of hiking poles for support while trekking, a good pair of hiking boots that are comfortable to wear, and other items such as sleeping bags, warm clothes and accessories including sunglasses, warm gloves and warm caps.
- Money while Trekking
It is strongly advised to have the currency be exchanged to local Nepali Rupees while trekking. There aren’t any currency exchanging centers in the mountains, and thus, carrying local Nepali Rupees will make it extremely easier for you to buy and pay for things during the journey. Trekkers can have their currency exchanged at the many currency-exchange centers in Kathmandu prior to starting the trip. The daily spending during the trip can amount to be about 10$ to 15$ or more based on the trekkers themselves. If local tour operators are used, then the majority of the allowance is taken care of. But extra expenses like drinking water, hot showers and buying trinkets and snacks can cost money that has to be paid by the trekkers themselves.
- Activity Level, Altitude Sickness and Acclimatization
Hiking for about 4 to 8 hours per day (2 to 10 miles) will be done while on the journey. The trekking trails range from moderate to steep grades and elevations range from 9,318 feet to a maximum of 18,192 feet. Proper acclimatization days take place at Namche Bazaar and Tengboche. Preparing the body for the trek is highly suggested as rising the body’s stamina is important. Cardio exercises like running, jogging and swimming can be done to raise one’s physical fitness level. But the trek can be done by people of all demographics. Altitude Sickness is a common ailment that befalls trekkers who do EBC Trekking. However, the progress and occurrence of the sickness is not a consistent matter. Rather, it depends from one person to the next. Trekkers who do the same trekking journey may suffer from sickness while others do not. Nevertheless, it should be considered as plausibility. That is why appropriate preventive measures should be taken. Trekkers can take medications like Diamox for the sickness. The most important factor to consider avoiding altitude sickness is not rushing the journey and taking proper time acclimatizing. Staying appropriately hydrated and eating well are also key factors. The trek should be done at a comfortable pace, slowly and steadily.
- Group Trekking and Solo Treks
Because of the popularity of the EBC Trek, if you are trekking on peak seasons then you will likely encounter many trekkers throughout the journey. Peak seasons also result in the guesthouses being crowded with trekkers. The options of group trekking in Nepal and solo trekking are both availabilities during the journey. If you want to be in the company of other trekkers then group trekking would be the best for you. But if you would rather have the trekking trails and the time in the mountains to yourself, then solo trekking can also be done. It is important to keep in mind that both solo and group trekking involve the presence of a guide. Hiring porters is also a good option. Not only does hiring porters in the mountains help the people’s economy by providing them with a job, but it also makes it easier for you while trekking