Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek, 18 Days

Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek, 18 Days

Moderate
18 Days
5,643 m/18,419 ft.
Kathmandu
March-May/Sep.-Dec.

Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek Overview

Many tourists dream of seeing and being there at the world’s highest mountain once in their life. And it is the main reason many tourists love to travel to Everest Base Camp. Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek is the best way to acclimatize yourself and follow a picturesque trail to the lap of Everest. You will get an opportunity to see beautiful eight-thousanders like Mt. Everest (8.848 .86 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m), Mt. Makalu (8,470 m), and Cho Oyu (8,201 m).

During the trek, you will get much time to immerse yourself in nature. Beautiful pine and rhododendron forests, exotic villages, and hospitable people are worth recalling. You will trek with the emitting river of Dudh Koshi takes you to the high-altitude Himalayas.

Why Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek?

Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal is an alternative trekking route in Everest Region. This route has the advantage of exploring the Himalayas and being here for a longer period of time. You will also avoid the one-way flight to Lukla. Everest Base Camp Trek via Phaplu is for those tourists who want to be in nature for a longer time. If you want to stay out of the crowd and be into nature, this trek will be best for you.

There is a domestic flight to reach Phaplu, but we recommend you take a jeep or local bus for the new experience. Drive to Phaplu is quite long, but with the beautiful landscape. Rushing river banks and ethnic villages will forget about the time.

The iconic Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek in the Himalayas leads us through Khumbu Valley. This trek helps to behold the everlasting magnificence of Sagarmatha National Park's surroundings. It will also be delightful to see the breathtaking vistas of the 4 highest peaks in the world.

It includes Mt. Everest (8.848 .86 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m), Mt. Makalu (8,470 m), Cho Oyu (8,201 m), Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Thamserku (6,608 m), Lobuche (4,940 m) and many more peaks. You will entirely fall in love with this unique art of nature. As you enter, listen to the echo of air struck into the Himalayas and the sounds of birds and insects from the trees.

You will be amazed to see the sceneries, beautiful forests and Sherpa settlements. Mostly, you may witness Himalayan monal, pheasants, musk deer, and even snow leopards. As you walk along with the trial, you will hear the humming vibration emanating from a monastery.

As you reach closer, you will feel the sturdy and deep sound that waved to the core. You will listen to pleasant sounds instrument and humming from the Tengboche Monastery. Phaplu to Everest Base Camp explores the exotic villages and traditions of people.

17 Days to trek from Phaplu to Everest Base Camp

Phaplu to Everest Base Camp route starts with an adventurous ride from Kathmandu to Phaplu. This is the long and scenic drive through BP Koirala highway. You will pass through green forests, riverbanks, villages, and mountains. The trials go through the Pattale village, famous for the homestay and fantastic view. You will see the panoramic view of Everest (8,848.86m), Makalu (8,463m), Gaurishankar (7135m), and many more.

Then journeying within the Rai and Sherpa villages. You will pass Ringmu, Taksindu, Kharikhola, Chauri kharak and get in trail at Chheplung. From there onward, the trail joins Lukla and then Namche Bazar. From this point, the trial will be quite busier than before. The trial will be rich with Sherpa peoples and modern tea houses. You will be surrounded on 3 sides by mountains. One side will be open by Bhote Koshi valley.

From Namche, you will follow the classic Everest Base Camp route. You will see lovely fir, rhododendron forests and grazing pastures along the trail. Mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags will make your trek beyond the imagination. Friendly Sherpa peoples, stone houses, and authentic Himalayan culture is the best part of the trek. As you reach Tengboche, witness mesmerizing views of Everest and other mighty peaks. You will be happy to see the patchwork stone-walled field at Dingboche.

That wall is for the protection of crops from grazing animals. Rocky moraine indicates access to Gorak Shep (5,180 m) and Everest Base Camp (5,486 m). At Everest Base Camp, stand on the Khumbu Glacier and look up with awe at the snow-capped giants. You will glorify the success and respect the climbers on the summit.

After gazing at the vastness of the Khumbu glacier, icefall, and icebergs, return to Gorak Shep. From Kalapatthar, you will then observe the ultimate close-up view of Mount Everest. With a remarkable experience in the Himalayas, the path drops through the novel Sherpa village of Lukla. The Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek returns via Namche to Lukla for a flight back to Kathmandu. It would also be probable to return via Phaplu or Jiri by road to Kathmandu.

How hard is Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek?

Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trip is a moderate trek. This trek is moderate, but in some places, there is a little adventurous. The sloppy and rugged terrains may be new and tiresome for some tourists.

Maintaining your own pace, enjoying nature, and packing wisely will make it much easier to trek in this region. Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek weather is not too harsh nor extreme weather changes. You will see many tea houses along the route, so make sure you will get enough rest and good dining.

What will be the Trek Cost for Phaplu to Everest Base Camp?

When you are thinking about exploring the Himalayas like Everest Base Camp, there will be many factors to consider, like route, best time, and how fit we need to be? But one of the most crucial confusion will be, “How much does Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek cost?”

Whether you are budget dependent or not, it is essential to consider how much you want to pay for the trip and what is the actual cost. The baseline cost of the Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek will depend on the number of variables. Your cost will change based on how comprehensive you want your trip to be.

Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek will generally be 17-20 days, and the cost is generally somewhere between USD 1300 to USD 1650. This price includes domestic flights, trekking permits, meals, professional trekking guides, porters, accommodation, entry fees, and others. You will get some discounts if you are in groups. The cost of Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek highly depends upon travelling in private or in a group.

Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Altitude

                          Photo: Altitude Chart

Highlights

  • Unique Sherpa culture of mountain legends
  • Magnificent view of world's highest peak including Everest (8,848.86 m), Makalu (8,467 m), Lhotse (8,535 m), and Cho Oyu (8,185 m).
  • Flight to Tenzing Hillary Airport Lukla, the most thrilling airport in the world.
  • Sagarmatha National Park, UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Capricious Multi-hued dense green forest.
  • Fascinating monasteries with a candid monk.
  • Beautiful villages of Phaplu, Nunthala, Bhupsa, and Namche Bazar.

General Inclusions
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu with BB plan
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek
  • First Aid Kit
  • Sagarmatha National Park entry fee and TIMS card
  • Experienced English-speaking trek guide and porter (2 trekkers: 1 guide and porter)
  • Staff Insurance
  • Salary, food, and accommodation of your staff during the trek
  • All ground transportation as per itinerary
  • Domestic Flight (KTM-Lukla-KTM)
  • Arrival transfer from the international airport to your hotel
  • Tea house lodge during your trek
  • Tour Certificate
  • Farewell Dinner
Not Included
  • International flight ticket
  • International airport tax
  • Visa Fee
  • Other personal items. (Phone calls, snacks, hot and cold drinks, laundry, alcohol, extra porter, shower, etc )
  • Private Travel Equipment
  • Excess baggage cost during your domestic flight
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for staff and guide
  • Anything that is not listed in the “PRICE INCLUDES” section above

Good to Know

Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek Weather

Nepal contains a diverse landscape with different geographical conditions. Nepal boasts all tropical as well as alpine weather conditions. So, if you are thinking of visiting Nepal, you can schedule it throughout the year. There are generally four seasons a year and fit destinations as their attraction.

Winter Season (December to February)

During the winter season, there will be moderate to heavy snowfall at high altitudes occasionally. So, it is best not to trek at such a high altitude as Everest Base camp during the winter. There may be the risk of a slippery road due to the snow and the danger of cold weather. But some adventure seekers dare to trek Everest Base Camp during winter too. It is best to trek to lower altitudes like the Terai Region as the days are better in this season.

Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is the best season for Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek and more crowded too. The views of mountains and other natural sceneries are mesmerizing. During this season, the trials and forest are decorated with wildflowers which makes your trek more attractive. It feels delighting with singing birds, beautiful views, wildflowers, and mountains in the background. You will get an opportunity to capture the perfect nature with a clear sky, beautiful faces of mountains, and beautiful nature. At higher elevations, the mountain views are excellent, and the temperature is moderate even at night.

Summer Season (June to August)

This season is best to avoid any trekking as the heavy rain makes the trial more dangerous. Trekking will be unfordable with muddy trials and full of leech during the trek. And Nepal has a high risk of landslides, mainly in a hilly region. But if you are vegetation and wild species of flora lover, you are most welcome to Nepal.

This season is blessed for the keen botanist as the higher valleys and grasslands blossom with wildflowers and lush vegetation. Everest base camp trek is not suitable; however, places like MustangManang, and Dolpo are located in a rain shadow. So, those areas will be best as the temperature will be mild and the weather is not so tough.

Autumn Season (September to November)

Autumn is another best season for Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek. This season is best for excellent weather and tantalizing views of mountains. This is the boon season as you can find many tourists on the trekking trail. The weather in this season is clear with mild to warm days and a few cold nights.

It will be safe in Nepal to trek as there are very low possibilities of slippery trials and bad weather. This season, you will also get an opportunity to experience main Nepalese festivals like Dashain and Tihar.

Equipment Checklist

Every trekking requires certain preparation of gears and types of equipment for the journey to make your trip more comfortable. It is recommended to carry the necessary and light things so that it will be easy while you are walking. The following belongings are recommended that should be brought, although we concede that our clients have their own decision for the clothing. To know what to expect in the Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek, we have prepared some useful clothing & gear during the trek.

Travel Documents

  • Airline tickets (confirmation and itinerary)
  • Nepal Visa form (may be obtained at Kathmandu Airport)
  • Travel insurance policy documents
  • Valid passport
  • Copy of passport (2 copies, first page only)
  • Passport photos (4)

Travel Equipment

  • Duffel bag (100 liters; no wheels or rigid handles)
  • Lightweight, duffel bag
  • Luggage locks
  • Travel wallet
  • Passport/money belt
  • Sleeping bag liner
  • Travel plug adapters
  • Electrical converter

Travel Clothing

  • Quick-dry undergarments
  • Synthetic or wool T-shirt
  • Long-sleeve, travel-friendly shirt and pants
  • Casual shoes
  • Mid-weight wool or synthetic socks

Trekking Equipment

  • Day pack (25–35 liters)
  • Sleeping bag comfortable to 0°F (dependent upon season, weather forecast and personal preference)
  • Waterproof hiking boots
  • Camp shoes (down booties or running shoes)
  • LED headlamp with extra batteries
  • Trekking poles

Trekking Clothing

  • Wool or synthetic T-shirts (2)
  • Mid-weight fleece or soft-shell jacket (2)
  • Mid-weight down or synthetic parka with hood
  • Convertible hiking pants
  • Fleece pants or insulated pants
  • Lightweight waterproof/breathable rain jacket and pants
  • Mid-weight waterproof and fleece gloves or mittens
  • Sun hat
  • Mid-weight wool or synthetic socks (3 pairs)
  • Liner socks (optional)
  • Glacier sunglasses
  • Neck gaiter, balaclava, Buff or bandana

Food

  • Energy bars
  • Electrolyte replacement drink mix
  • Snacks (cookies, GORP, Snickers, etc.)

Traveler Reviews

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Sioned G

July 2021 • Verified Traveler

I have done two treks with Bikram in the last two years: phaplu and the Manaslu and Tsum valley. He is a friendly, reliable, and experienced guide who I always felt I could trust. I would definitely recommend trekking with this company.

FAQs

Phaplu to Everest Base Camp is located in the Everest (Khumbu) Region of Nepal. It is located on 28°0′26″N 86°51′34″E which is 5364 meters from sea level.

Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek Route starts from the adventurous route from Kathmandu to Phaplu through BP Koirala highway.

The Everest Base Camp sits at an elevation of 5,364m above sea level.

The best time for trekking to Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek is from March to Early May and from September to November. There is a possibility to trek from December to February but you will need to be prepared for heavy snowfall and cold temperature. June to August is the monsoon and summer season so we do not generally recommend trekking.

You will need to take two permits: Sagarmatha National Park Permit – USD 15 for SAARC nations and USD 30 for other nations per person. Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit costs USD 20 per person.

Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek is worth it as you will be greeted with the most enigmatic view of the world's tales of mountains like Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho-Oyu, and other outstanding mountains as AmaDablam, Kongde, Thame Peak, Thamserku, and Khagtega. You will also get an opportunity to see the massive glacier in the Himalayas called Ngozomba Glacier, Gokyo Ri Peak, and the remarkable 5 lakes.

Yes! It is not compulsory to hire a guide for Phaplu to Everest Base Camp. However, we suggest you hire a government-licensed guide for your safety and hassle-free hike. A professional guide knows the mountain well, is aware of challenges, and explains the local culture and environment in the simplest way.

Walking daily up to 5-6 hours a day, you will gain an altitude of 600 to 700 meters daily.

It is quite difficult to answer the exact duration of the Phaplu to Everest Base Camp trek. The duration depends on the route and pace of your hike. However, in general, we can complete the trek in 15 to 21 days (it starts with your arrival and departure).

Teahouse on Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trail offers basic meals; Daal Bhaat & Tarkari is the main food that you will get to eat on the trail. Along with some Nepalese cuisines, you will be served some international cuisine such as – pizza, noodle soup, momo, etc.

Children who are familiarized with mountains are used to lots of walking can trek the Phaplu to Everest Base Camp trail, although, for their own enjoyment, we recommend an age limit of around 12. If you want to trek Phaplu to Everest Base Camp with your family, please contact us so that we can discuss your children's fitness in more further detail.

This case is very rare. Our team is very experienced and will do their best to help each trekker complete their journey. If you get ill and need to return back, you will be looked after and arrangements will be made for you.

People who are suffering from acute or chronic health conditions impacting their stamina, range of motion, coordination, or balance may have difficulty completing this trek. If you have such problems and any doubt about your physical readiness, then consult a physician well.

We suggest you consult the doctor. However, we advise you to bring simple medicines like Ibuprofen, Codeine, Paracetamol, Strepsils, anti-diarrhea tablets, and Diamox (for altitude sickness). If you are having a package tour then company will provide you such a basic medicines for you.

There are many first-time trekkers who are completing this trek. If you are physically fit with good stamina and determination then you can easily complete Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek. Previous trek or hike experience will be a plus point for you.

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