When people think about Nepal, the first thing that comes in their mind is the snowcapped mountains. Among many alpine trekking routes, Mount Everest Base Camp Trek is the most popular trekking destination in Nepal. You might also be considering about embarking on the Everest Base Camp Trek; the trek that takes you to the close proximity of the world’s highest Mountain. The word ‘Everest’ sounds daunting for those who have never been to the Everest region. Ignorance of difficulty level, lack of knowledge of required physical fitness including other factors might have a hindered you to decide whether to go or not for this trek. The following guidelines provide preliminary information for the enthusiastic trekkers regarding this trek; so that they might feel comfortable making up their mind:
How difficult is Everest Base Camp Trek?
The classic Everest Base Camp Trek lasts for two weeks that starts with an exciting flight to Lukla from Kathmandu-the capital city of Nepal. Other routes begin and end at Salleri, Phaplu, and Jiri if anybody chooses the longer off-the-beaten-path to the Everest Base Camp.
The round trip trekking distance to the Everest from Lukla-the classic Everest Base Camp Trek-is 130 kilometers. Normally, this is a two weeks trek and you will be walking five to six hour a day on an average. In most of the places, the path is moderate, but you have steep ascend and descend over the rocky trail in some places. However, you should not be concerned about this issue as you will have enough time for rest and you can go on your own pace. Unless you are going on your own, your guide will accompany you on every step of the trek.
Moreover, your porter will carry your stuff, and you will be carrying only a small daypack; so that you can have an easy walk. Importantly, there are adequate number of places for refreshments on the way. The most challenging part of the Everest Base Camp Trek is an Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). You should be aware of it but should not worry about as you will have a gradual ascend and have ample time for acclimatization during this trek. Depending on the season, you might walk on snowy terrain and should prepare for it.
It is not a climb but only a trek, so you do not require to use any special equipment or need specialized skills, simple preparation can take you to the lap of the world’s tallest mountain. People of all age, sex and of different weight complete this trek every year. This is an achievable trek with little preparation. Hence, if you are considering to embark on this trek; you can go for it.
How to train oneself for the Everest Base Camp Trek?
Trek to Everest Base Camp demands a certain level of strength; however, you should not be an athlete to go for this trip. Anybody with a general level of fitness with a little bit preparation can complete this trek. It is not as difficult as it sounds. The more you are fit, the more you will enjoy the trek. Your involvement in physical activities helps you to complete this trek smoothly. There are some difficult portions on the route, so it is good to be strong enough to cope with the difficulty. It is wise to set yourself on a routine exercise at least six weeks before the trek. You can include the following activities in your travel plan:
– Regular jogging/running
– Training at the gym focusing your legs
– Short or long hiking
– Involve in outdoor sports such as soccer, cricket
– Cycling
This trek is not as arduous as it sounds so a little preparation will take you to the destination of your dream.
How to find good value deal for Everest Base Camp Trek?
Embarking on the trek to Everest Base Camp can be a dream of thousands of trekkers around the globe. Among others, economic factor is also an essential aspect for going this trek. Of course, you should take a wise decision before confirming this trek.
If you are traveling on your own, there is no question of finding a good deal value as you will be spending yourself all the service you use during the trek. However, if you are considering to choose a tour operator to manage this trek for you, it is essential to take a wise decision so that monetary factor does not ruin the trek of your lifetime.
For the Everest Base Camp trek (12-14 days) various tour operators offer price ranging from 1200 USD to 5000 USD depending on the service they provide. Among multiple packages, you can choose the best package suitable for you. Obtaining the recommendation of the people from various genuine travel sites including Trip Advisor and Lonely Planet can be a good idea before finalizing your trip. Moreover, you can communicate with a few top-ranked trek operators about the cost for the Everest Base Camp Trek. While doing so, you should minutely go through the service they offer during the trek and ensure that there is no hidden charge in the package they offer. Of course, choosing a good and reliable trekking company makes your trip pleasant, and you can enjoy the trek of your lifetime on its fullest.
