Kathmandu: 20-Day Everest Base Camp with Kala Patthar Trek

Imagine standing amid the towering spires of the Himalayas, breathing in crisp mountain air, and gazing at the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest. That’s exactly what you get on this 20-day trek, starting from Kathmandu and winding through vibrant Sherpa villages, lush forests, and rugged mountain trails to reach the iconic Everest Base Camp and the viewpoint Kala Patthar. For $764 per person, this adventure offers a solid balance of challenging trekking, cultural encounters, and jaw-dropping scenery.

What we really love about this trek? First, the opportunity to see Tengboche Monastery—an active spiritual site with stunning mountain backdrops—and second, the chance to hike up to Kala Patthar for some of the best panoramic views of Everest and the surrounding peaks. Both spots offer unforgettable photo moments and a sense of accomplishment.

A potential consideration? The long bus or jeep ride from Kathmandu to Salleri takes around 12-13 hours, which might test your patience and stamina before the real trekking begins. Also, since the tour involves high-altitude walking, it’s essential to be prepared for acclimatization days and physical endurance.

This tour suits those who are reasonably fit, willing to spend days on the trail, and eager to experience authentic Sherpa culture and Himalayan scenery. It’s especially ideal if you want a well-organized package that balances adventure with comfort, including some nights in cozy lodges and friendly guides.

Key Points

• Stunning Himalayan Views: Get close to Everest and other towering peaks, especially from Kala Patthar.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit the sacred Tengboche Monastery and bustling Namche Bazaar.
• Thorough Itinerary: A well-structured 20-day plan with acclimatization days to reduce altitude sickness risk.
• Affordable Price: At $764, it offers good value for a comprehensive trek with guide services and permits included.
• Authentic Experience: Trek through Sherpa villages and traditional tea houses, avoiding overly touristy routes.
• Physical Preparation Needed: Expect several days of walking 5-7 hours, with elevation gains, so a decent fitness level is recommended.

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An In-Depth Look at the Everest Base Camp & Kala Patthar Trek

Starting From Kathmandu: The Journey Begins

Your adventure kicks off with a quick 30-minute transfer from Kathmandu Airport to your hotel. Here, you’ll meet your guide, who will brief you on the upcoming days. This initial night allows you to settle in and get excited about the journey ahead. Be sure to pack your essentials—warm clothes, sturdy shoes, and a camera—because from this point on, the scenery only gets more spectacular.

The next day, you’ll leave Kathmandu early for Salleri, either by bus or jeep. This long 12-13 hour ride—sometimes a bit bumpy—takes you through Nepalese landscapes, from terraced fields to hillside villages. We loved the way this drive prepared us for the mountain environment, as it gradually increased our anticipation and helped acclimate our bodies. Keep your snacks handy, and remember, patience is part of the experience.

Trekking Through Sherpa Villages

From Salleri, the trek begins with manageable days through quaint villages like Nunthala and Bubsa. These early stages are relatively gentle, giving you a chance to adjust to the altitude and enjoy the lush scenery. The walk from Nunthala to Bubsa, for instance, takes about 5-6 hours and offers glimpses of terraced farmland and river crossings.

Moving higher, you’ll reach Surkhe and then Phakding. Walking along the Dudh Koshi River, the trail is enchanting, with views of snow-capped peaks peeking through pine forests. This section sets the tone for the Himalayan adventure—balancing physical effort with awe-inspiring vistas.

Entering the Heart of the Himalayas: Namche Bazaar and Tengboche

Once in Namche Bazaar, you’ll find a lively mountain town with bakeries, shops, and a lively Sherpa community. We appreciated the inclusion of an acclimatization day here—crucial for adjusting to higher elevations, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.

A highlight is the walk to Tengboche Monastery. Perched at 3,867 meters, this historic monastery offers panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other giants. The monks’ chants, combined with mountain vistas, create a spiritual, almost surreal atmosphere. Tourists often comment on the tranquility and beauty of this site, which truly feels like a mountain sanctuary.

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Climbing Higher: Dingboche, Lobuche, and Everest Base Camp

The trek continues through Dingboche, at 4,260 meters, where we found the air noticeably thinner but the scenery even more breathtaking. The village feels like a mountain haven, with stone walls and cozy tea houses.

From Lobuche, at nearly 5,000 meters, the trail gets tougher but more rewarding. The trek to Gorak Shep, your base for the Everest climb, takes about 2 hours, after which you’ll head to Everest Base Camp. Standing at the foot of the world’s tallest mountain, surrounded by glaciers and towering peaks, is a moment you won’t forget. Many travelers describe this as the trip’s emotional highlight, with quotes like, “Seeing Everest up close was surreal; I couldn’t believe I was actually there.”

The Ultimate Viewpoint: Kala Patthar

The next early morning, you’ll hike up to Kala Patthar at 5,545 meters. It’s a steep ascent, but the payoff is immense—an unobstructed, sweeping view of Everest and the surrounding Himalayas. We loved the way the sunrise cast golden hues on Everest’s summit, creating perfect photo moments.

Descending back to Pheriche and retracing your steps to Namche, the landscape changes as you descend. This part of the journey offers a different perspective—lush valleys replacing the barren high-altitude terrain.

Return Journey and Reflection

The trek concludes with a 6-hour walk from Namche back to Lukla, the mountain airport that marks the end of your trekking adventure. From Lukla, you’ll fly back to Kathmandu—an exhilarating flight that offers another perspective of the Himalayas from above.

The long drive back from Kathmandu to Salleri is a reminder of how much ground you’ve covered, physically and mentally, over these 20 days. By the time you arrive home, you’ll have stories of mountain vistas, Sherpa hospitality, and personal achievement.

Practical Aspects and What’s Included

This tour offers excellent value, considering the inclusions: hotel pick-up, a night in a 2-star hotel in Kathmandu, trekking permits, guide services—including food and accommodation during the trek—and trekking poles. The guide, described as friendly and helpful, makes a significant difference in navigating the logistics and ensuring safety.

The trek is designed with acclimatization days at Namche and Dingboche, which are vital for high-altitude safety. The trek’s structure balances walking days of 5-7 hours with rest days, helping most travelers adjust without too much discomfort.

The cost of $764 covers much of what you’ll need, but remember that food and drinks during the trek are not included, so budget accordingly. Also, if you want a porter, it costs about $25 per day, which can ease your load—worth considering if you’re concerned about carrying your pack.

What to Bring and What Not to Bring

Pack smart: warm clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottles, and layered clothes for variable weather. The tour advises bringing a camera, snacks, and a first aid kit. Pets aren’t allowed, and travelers with mobility issues might find the high altitude challenging.

Best Time to Go

The recommended seasons are March to May and September to December—these months offer clearer skies, stable weather, and excellent mountain views. Avoid the monsoon months, when trails can be muddy and visibility limited.

Final Thoughts

This 20-day Everest Base Camp trek combines adventure, culture, and unforgettable scenery at a reasonable price. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive Himalayan experience with the support of experienced guides, without the high cost of more exclusive packages.

You’ll come away with stunning photos, a sense of achievement, and a deep appreciation for Sherpa resilience and mountain beauty. It’s a trip that demands physical effort but rewards with some of the most iconic views on Earth.

While the long travel days from Kathmandu might seem daunting, they set the stage for the real highlight—being among the giants that make Everest legendary. The combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and personal challenge makes this trek a compelling choice for adventurous travelers.

In short, if you’re looking for an affordable, well-organized way to get close to Everest and experience Himalayan life authentically, this trek stands out as a solid option.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from Kathmandu to Salleri?
It’s about 12-13 hours by bus or jeep, so expect a long but scenic journey through Nepal’s diverse landscapes.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pick-up, a night in Kathmandu, trekking permits, guide services, food, accommodation during trekking, and trekking poles.

Are acclimatization days included?
Yes, there are acclimatization days scheduled in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche to help prevent altitude sickness.

What is the typical trekking duration each day?
Most trekking days involve walking 5-7 hours, with the most challenging days reaching higher altitudes.

Can beginners join this trek?
While the trek is physically demanding, experienced hikers with good fitness can manage it. Proper preparation and acclimatization are crucial.

Is food included during the trek?
No, food and drinks are not included, but they are available for purchase at tea houses along the trail.

What gear should I bring?
Warm clothes, sturdy hiking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottles, layered clothing, camera, snacks, and a first aid kit are recommended.

What is the best season to trek?
March to May and September to December are ideal due to clear weather and good mountain views.

Are pets allowed on this trek?
Pets are not permitted during the trek, in accordance with park regulations.

In closing, this trek offers a genuine Himalayan adventure, combining natural beauty, cultural insights, and personal achievement—all at an accessible price point. Whether this is your first high-altitude trek or a return to Nepal’s mountains, it promises unforgettable memories—and plenty of stories to tell for years to come.

You can check availability for your dates here: