Everest Base Camp Trek by Road via Jeep - 18 Days

(5.0)3 reviews
Know before you go
  • Duration 18 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Trip Start and End Kathmandu to Kathmandu
  • Best Season March to May and Mid-Sep to Mid-Dec
  • Trip Area Everest Region
  • Maximum Altitude 5545m.|18192ft.

Highlights

  • Trek to Everest base camp by jeep
  • No hassle of flight delay or cancellation
  • Escape the overwhelming Lukla flight from Kathmandu
  • Explore beautiful Sherpa villages and get to see their daily lifestyle
  • Follow lush rhododendron and pine forests along the Dudh Koshi river 
  • Crossing hanging suspension bridges numerous times throughout the trek
  • Visit ancient monasteries like Tengboche and Pangboche 
  • Witness diverse landscapes and stunning mountain views, including five out of the top ten highest mountains in the world
  • Go on adventurous side hikes and witness gorgeous sunrises and mountain vistas
  • Trek along the Khumbu Glacier and pass by glacier moraine before reaching the lap of the highest mountain in the world, Mt. Everest
  • Witness a jaw-dropping mountain panorama from Kala Patthar

Everest base camp trek by jeep makes this world-renowned trekking route much more approachable for many individuals who may not be able to fly to the starting point of the trek. On this 16-day Everest base camp trek program, you will follow the mainstream trail to the base of Mount Everest (8848.86m.|29031ft.), spending the nights in the beautiful Sherpa village.

The only difference between the standard 14-day EBC trek and the Everest base camp trek by road is that this package skips the overwhelming Lukla flight. From Kathmandu, you will drive to Sallei/Phaplu and continue to Thamdanda, where the trek begins. It takes only two days of walking to reach Phakding from here, and you are now on the famous Everest base camp trek route. 

The Everest Base Camp Trek by road via Jeep

The Everest base camp trail is adventurous and goes via varied landscapes. From Phakding onwards, you will trek to Monjo and enter Sagarmatha National Park, leaving this village. The trail goes through forests of magnolia, pine, and rhododendron. You will be trekking along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing it numerous times via suspension bridges. 

In Namche Bazaar and Dingboche villages, we have acclimatization days. These rest days will let you explore the surrounding area and avoid altitude sickness. You will hike to Hotel Everest View and Nagarjuna Hill, respectively. Likewise, visit ancient monasteries in Tengboche and Pangboche villages. 

Above Dingboche, the treeline ends, and you will trek through the glacier path. Cross Dughla and follow the Khumbu Glacier to Lobuche village. From here, the trail sharply ascends to Gorak Shep and continues to Everest Base Camp (5364m.|17598ft.). This part of the trail is steep and rugged, so you have to be careful while trekking. 

Kala Patthar (5545m.|18192ft.) is the highest point of the Everest base camp trek without flying to Lukla. Once you return from here, you will trek back to Lobuche village following the same trail and descend to Pheriche. From here, trek to Lukla via Namche Bazaar. During the return, of our Everest base camp trek by jeep package we will have a jeep ride from Thamdanda to Kathmandu. 

Why do Everest base camp trek by jeep?

The main highlight of the Everest base camp trek by jeep for 18 days is no Luka flight. Likewise, the trek to the base camp of the highest mountain in the world itself is a life-changing venture. Whether we talk about views, experience, adventure, or confidence you will get by the end of the journey, the Everest base camp trek by jeep ride has everything. 

The trekking route is dotted with lodges run by the locals. Meet Sherpas, the dominant community in the Khumbu region. Get to see their lifestyle and culture. Witness different landscapes at every turn in the trail. Mountains like Everest (8848.86m.|29031ft.), Lhotse (8516m.|27940ft.), Nuptse (7861m.|25791ft.), Cho Oyu (8188m.|26864ft.), Thamserku (6608m.|21680ft.), Pumori (7161m.|23494ft.), Ama Dablam (6812m.|22349ft.), etc, are seen on this trek.

Join our Everest base camp trek by jeep 2024/2025/2026 departures and travel to one of the most stunning parts of Earth. Push your limits and explore the beauty of the Himalayas. And most importantly, get to know yourself away from the hustle and bustle of the world. We have the best Everest base camp trek by jeep cost in the market. 

If you have queries regarding this package, feel free to contact us at info@nepalnirvanatrails.com or call us on this number +977 9841380469 (WhatsApp/Viber).

Drive in and out during the Everest Base Camp Trek

Following our Everest base camp trek by jeep 18 days package, you will drive to Thamdanda and from here, trek to Paiya. Also, at the end of the trek, you will take a jeep ride from Thamdanda to Kathmandu. Instead of that, you can also opt for a commercial 35-minute flight from Lukla to Kathmandu.

Customize the Everest base camp trek by jeep itinerary if you are bound by time

Our Everest base camp trek by road is 18 days long. However, if you are bound by time and wish for a short by-road Everest base camp trek itinerary, you can contact us for customization. Our travel consultant will design the perfect Everest base camp trek by jeep itinerary to suit your time frame, budget, and fitness. 

You can trek to the Everest base camp throughout the year without the Lukla flight

As you can reach the starting point of the Everest base camp trail without a Lukla flight, you can now do this trek throughout the year. Usually, during the off seasons-summer/monsoon (June to August) and winter (September to November), it is quite tough to do the Everest base camp trek because of unpredictable weather. 

Likewise, the commercial Lukla flights from Kathmandu are mostly delayed or canceled, making the trip quite a hassle. However, as our Everest base camp trek by road package can let you come in and out of the Everest region without the Lukla flight, you can do the trek throughout the year. 

If you want to take Lukla's flight, that's possible too, or combine a helicopter flight for more comfortable travel.

If you have a change of heart and wish to take Lukla's flight, feel free to let us know. Our trek packages are flexible, and you can customize them anytime as per your requirements. Do note that the cost of the package may also increase or decrease as per the changes made. 

For an even more comfortable and unique lifetime experience, you can combine a helicopter flight to/from Kathmandu-Lukla. 

Check out our other trekking packages in the Everest region for more options. Similarly, we have many other adventurous moderate treks in Nepal, like the Annapurna Base Camp trek, Upper Mustang trek, Langtang Valley trek, Mardi Himal trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, etc. 

Festivals during the Everest base camp trek by road 

Depending upon your trekking period, you may get to see some of the vibrant festivals celebrated by the locals along the Everest base camp trail. Below, we have made the list of festivals celebrated in the Khumbu region per month:

Gyalpo Lhosar: Gyalpo Lhosar is Sherpa New Year. It is celebrated in January or February.

Lhosar: Lhosar is the Tibetan New Year, celebrated in February or March, depending on the Tibetan lunar calendar. It is one of the most important festivals in the Everest region and involves rituals, dance, and traditional music. 

Sakela: The Rai community celebrates the Sakela festival during April or May. This agricultural festival is marked by traditional Rai dance, music, and the worship of nature deities.

Dumji: Dumji is a Sherpa festival celebrated in different parts of the Everest region in honor of Guru Rinpoche. Dumji is celebrated based on the lunar calendar and the local monasteries' traditions. In general, Dumji tends to occur in the spring or early summer months, with some villages celebrating it in May or June.

Yartung: Yartung is a unique horse racing festival celebrated in the Solu-Khumbu region of Everest. It usually takes place in late August or early September, coinciding with the harvest season. 

Why trek with Nepal Nirvana Trails?

We, Nepal Nirvana Trails, do our best to make sure every trek and tour done with us in Nepal is flawless. Our expert and professional team help you with your questions and preparation for the journey. 

While you prepare for the trek, we make all the arrangements for a smooth, hassle-free trek. We are open with our costs and do not include any hidden charges in our trips. You will get what you see on our website. 

With our 20+ years of expertise in organizing treks in the Himalayas, we, Nepal Nirvana Trails, assure a safe and life-changing venture at an affordable cost!

Itinerary

Day to Day Details

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  • Hotel
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  • 5364m.|17594ft.

  • Guest House
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  • 5545m.|18192ft.

  • Guest House
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  • 3440m.|11286ft.

  • Guest House
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  • 2660m.|8727ft.

  • Guest House
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 2413m.|7915ft.

  • Hotel
  • 1400m.|4593ft.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast
  • 1400m.|4593ft.

  • Breakfast

Want to customize your trip? Share your holiday plans. Our travel experts create an awesome trip for a lifetime experience holiday.

Route Map

Everest Base Camp Trek by Road via Jeep - 18 Days map

What's Included

  • Airport transfer services during international flight arrival and departure
  • 3-night Hotel in Kathmandu on BB Basis 
  • Private Jeep Drive to and from Phaplu
  • Local Jeep Drive to and From Thamdanda
  • Accommodations during the treks 
  • Meals (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) while on the treks
  • Experienced English-speaking government-licensed trekking guide 
  • Guide's salary, food, equipment, and insurance 
  • All applicable National Park and Local permits
  • Sleeping bag (To be returned after the trek)
  • Duffle Bag if you take porter 
  • Water purification tablet
  • First aid kit with basic medications and Oximeter
  • Souvenir: Company T-shirt and Trekking map 
  • Official expenses and government tax/VAT.

What's Excluded

  • International flight tickets
  • Nepal entry visa
  • Travel and health Insurance which covers emergency Rescues and evacuations
  • During the trekking time, tea/coffee, personal expenses, snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, bottled water, hot shower, WI-FI, battery charging, etc.
  • Lunch and dinner and extra-night Hotel in Kathmandu
  • Porter - Check the Add-on Options
  • Tips for treks guide, porter (it is appreciated)
Add-Ons & Options

The package provides an affordable way for budget-conscious trekkers to explore the Everest Base Camp Trek by road. However, there is also the option to enhance your experience with add-ons to the package.

Porter Service

You have the option to include a porter in addition to your guide. The porter carries a load of up to 20 kilograms. You can share the heavier belongings with the porter, allowing you to trek more comfortably and with the guidance of your trekking guide. 

One Porter Costs: USD 300

Upcoming Departures

    
Start DateFridayDecember 13, 2024End DateMondayDecember 30, 2024PriceAvailableUS $999
Start DateMondayDecember 16, 2024End DateThursdayJanuary 02, 2025PriceAvailableUS $999
Start DateWednesdayDecember 18, 2024End DateSaturdayJanuary 04, 2025PriceAvailableUS $999
Start DateSaturdayDecember 21, 2024End DateTuesdayJanuary 07, 2025PriceAvailableUS $999
Start DateTuesdayDecember 24, 2024End DateFridayJanuary 10, 2025PriceAvailableUS $999
Start DateThursdayDecember 26, 2024End DateSundayJanuary 12, 2025PriceAvailableUS $999
Start DateSaturdayDecember 28, 2024End DateTuesdayJanuary 14, 2025PriceAvailableUS $999
Start DateMondayDecember 30, 2024End DateThursdayJanuary 16, 2025PriceAvailableUS $999

Useful Info

Everest base camp trek by Jeep difficulty

The Everest base camp trek by jeep increases the walking days to 2 to 3. The trek is moderately difficult. It means any individual with good fitness can do this trek. The trail goes through uneven hillsides and dense forests for the first 4 to 5 days. Gradually, the terrain changes to steep, rugged gorges and moraines. 

The trail from Phakding to Namche Bazaar, Dingboche to Lobuche, and Lobuche to Everest Base Camp involves steep climbing. These are the most difficult sections of Everest base camp trekking. Do note that the trails are not technically difficult and only require a little over 6 hours of walking and a bit steep, uneven tracks. 

The Everest base camp trek route is not difficult in terms of accommodation and meals. The trail is dotted with a range of lodges and tea houses. You do have to adjust a little when it comes to the internet, hot shower, etc. You do not need to have previous trekking experience to join this trek, but physical and mental fitness is crucial. 

Altitude Sickness

The elevation rises significantly during the Everest base camp trek by jeep. From Kathmandu at 1,400 meters (4,593ft), you will reach Kala Patthar at 5,545 meters (1,8192 ft) within the span of 10 days of trekking. Because of the high elevation, there is a risk of altitude sickness on this adventure. 

Note that not everyone suffers from altitude sickness while doing Everest base camp trekking. Likewise, there are also ways to avoid it. You have to understand that altitude sickness happens if your body is not properly acclimated. So, how can you acclimatize? By taking an acclimatization break during the trek.

Our Everest base camp trek by jeep itinerary has two acclimatization days between Phakding and Kala Patthar. You will take a break in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. Likewise, this itinerary does not see a drastic change in elevation like the standard EBC trek 14-day package, you will also have ample time to adjust to the elevation before you even reach Namche Bazaar. 

So comparatively, the risk of altitude sickness is low during the Everest base camp trek by road. Still, you cannot be carefree. Be aware of symptoms like headache, vomiting, nausea, difficulty in breathing, insomnia, etc. Drink at least 2 liters of water every day, and do not consume alcoholic drinks or smoke.

Everest base camp trek permits

The Everest base camp trek requires two permits- a Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entrance permit and a Sagarmatha National Park entry permit. Our Everest base camp trek by jeep package cost covers the fees of both permits. 

  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entrance permit cost: NPR 2000 per person
  • Sagarmatha National Park entry permit cost: NPR 3000 per person

Best time to go on the Everest base camp trek by jeep

The best time to trek to Everest base camp is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These are the peak trekking seasons and have stable weather and moderate climates. Unlike the off seasons- summer/monsoon (June to August) and winter (December to February), when the trail and weather condition is at their poorest, the peak trekking season has clear visibility, an ideal trail, and a low chance of precipitation. 

However, you can do the Everest Base Camp Trek by road throughout the year by reaching Thamdanda by jeep and starting the trek. Undoubtedly, opting for a jeep ride to the Everest region is a good alternative to avoid the uncertainty of flight cancellations that often trouble those traveling to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest Base Camp. The road journey, though challenging and sometimes perilous during certain seasons, can indeed be accomplished with prudent planning. Having a couple of buffer days in hand is a wise strategy to mitigate potential setbacks caused by unpleasant weather, road closures, or unforeseen obstacles.

Likewise, trekking in the spring season lets you enjoy the greenery of the Sagarmatha National Park. Before reaching Kala Patthar, you will trek past a wide range of climatic zones. Exploring lush rhododendron and pine forests, you will trek past the juniper and ascend to the alpine zone. Similarly, in the autumn season, the trail gets beautiful with faded colors of leaves. The festivity of Nepalese people makes the journey further enchanting. 

Last minute booking 

If you couldn't book the Everest base camp trek by jeep in advance and are now thinking of making the last-minute booking, you have to understand a few things. First of all, booking any trek or tour with us at the last minute requires full payment of the package for trek confirmation.
Likewise, both you and we may not have ample time to prepare and arrange everything for the journey, so please be patient. We will do our best to arrange all the logistics included during the trek. If you are already in Kathmandu and wish to do the Everest base camp trek by road, contact us or visit our office in Thamel for more information. 

Accommodation During Everest Base Camp Trek by Drive package

Everest base camp trek has lodge accommodation along the trekking route and a three-star hotel in Kathmandu as per our itinerary. Lodges are simple accommodations along the trail where you will get mostly twin shared rooms to spend the night. Single rooms are only available on prior notice with a supplementary charge.

Toilets are common in most lodges, and some places offer private washrooms as well. Western toilets are available in the villages at lower elevations, however, once you touch higher parts of the trail, you may only get squat toilets. Be self-sufficient with toiletries, including toilet paper and hand soap.

Meals During Everest Base Camp Trek Drive by Jeep

Our Everest base camp trek by jeep package includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek, all breakfast with a complimentary farewell dinner in Kathmandu. You will get cuisine from all around the world in Kathmandu. However, the trekking route limits the food options. Still, given the popularity of the Everest base camp trail, you will get great food variety. Likewise, tea shops sell a wide selection of beverages, energy drinks, protein bars, and other snacks that you can buy on your own. There is also no lack of desserts, bakery items, coffee, and teas. 

From oats, toast, eggs, porridge, soup, and paratha for breakfast to dal bhat, burgers, pizza, thukpa, thenduk, chapati, curries, chilies, momo, and noodles, the options are fantastic. However, during the trekking time, concerning your health reasons, we recommend opting for vegetarian and vegan meals, as the meats available in the mountain are brought up by the cities and stored for long periods. Consumption of the meat item may lead to food poison and we want you to be healthy enough to complete the trek successfully rather than returning with disappointment due to unwanted illness.

Travel Insurance

To do the Everest base camp trek, travel insurance is compulsory. It should cover emergency air evacuation and medical bills. You can buy travel insurance for the Everest base camp trek by road in your country. Check all the clauses of the insurance properly before purchasing it. 

In a region like Everest, which does not have roadways at higher up regions or decent health infrastructure, travel insurance provides the necessary safety net in case of medical and other unseen emergencies. Carry all the documents of travel insurance with you as we need them before the trek starts. 

Travel tips (electricity, internet, ATM, luggage, tipping, personal expenses)

  • Lodges have separate charging stations. You have to pay USD 1 to USD 2 to charge your device. Also, pack spare batteries or a power bank for backup.
  • WiFi is available in certain places, but the connection is not good. Buy a Nepali sim and use data for a better connection. Do note that you will get off-grid in some sections of the Everest base camp trail.
  • You can withdraw money in Kathmandu or Namche Bazaar on this trek. Even though you will do an organized trek, you have to carry some Nepali cash to buy additional services while trekking.
  • Tipping guides, porters, and drivers are essential parts of the Everest base camp trek in Nepal, however, it is not covered in the package cost. So, budget extra money and keep it aside to give tips to our on-field crew members. 
  • If you opt for the flight option then your duffel bag should not surpass 10 kg per person, and the backpack weight limit is 5 kg per person.
  • Expenses for travel insurance, tips, international flights, travel visas, shopping, etc, are not covered in the package cost. So, budget personal expenses as per that.

Client Reviews

tptripadvisor
  • T
    TitouanFranceJuly 08, 2024

    EBC during monsoon

    I’ve trekked to Everest Base Camp during the monsoon season by jeep with Nepal Nirvana Trails and I’ve had a blast with the team ! Especially Raju, my guide, who has been here for me at any time, is super kind, reassuring and fun. I’ve spent such a good time with him on the trails for 2 weeks straight and always felt safe even in tough conditions ! He took care of me and made sure I acclimatized properly to the altitude. He was there for me 100%.
    Definitely recommand the experience and Raju for sure !

    Dear Titouan, Namaste!
    Thank you so much for taking the time to share your positive experience with us! We're thrilled you had an excellent trek to the Everest Base Camp Trek with the guide, Raju. Thank you for the recommendations. We hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable trek in the future!
    Best Regards,
    Kp Dhital and Nepal Nirvana Trails Team.
    WhatsApp: +977 9841380469

  • D
    DinoSwedenMarch 26, 2024

    Pretty much perfect

    I’m back home from Nepal now, and thinking back on the fantastic trip I had — the 15 days I spent trekking in the Everest region with my guide Ram — I really couldn’t be happier.
    From my arrival at Tribhuvan airport, where I was greeted with flowers, to the awesome meeting with the company owner KP (where I received a briefing, map, t-shirt, chlorine tablets) at his office, all the way to the challenging and beautiful two passes trekk we did — it was all professional, caring, and supportive from begging to end. It can be quite scary to go solo in a foreign country, but all my fears disappeared when I met with my guide.
    All the logistics — tea house stays, food, permits, even tea and coffee during the day — all was taken care of by the company and the guide. Contact with the company was instantaneous. Back in Kathmandu, KP bought us dinner as a final act. I really don’t have anything else to say than this: when I come back to Nepal I know who to call for my future adventures. Yes, that’s right. These guys!

    Dear Dino, Namaste! 
    Thank you for sharing an incredible review of your experience of the Gosaikunda Lake Trek with the Nirvana Trails team! We are pleased to guide you with services meeting your expectations and hear about your experience with our guide, Ram. Hopefully, we can assist you again for your next adventure in Nepal. 
    Best Regards, 
    Kp Dhital and Nepal Nirvana Trails Team.
    WhatsApp: +977 9841380469

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