Are you looking for an adventure with a perfect mountainous landscape off the beaten path? If so, consider Trekking to Everest Base Camp. This hike will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, and it is a challenging journey that will test your physical and mental endurance.
Every year, thousands of people from all over the globe come to Nepal to attempt to reach Everest Base Camp. However, Everest is not an easy hike to Base Camp, and many underestimate the level of physical and mental preparation required to complete the trek. I have been guiding Everest base camp treks for over 20 years, and I have seen many people underestimate the challenge of the trek. The key to successfully reaching Everest base camp is being adequately prepared. This means having the right gear, being physically fit, and having a positive mental attitude. There are many resources available to help you prepare for your Everest base camp trek, and if you take the time to prepare properly, you will increase your chances of success.
Everest Base Camp trekking can be an unforgettable experience with proper planning and preparation. Let’s dive into some facts and Does and Don’t.
DEMOGRAPHIC
There are several ways to reach Everest base camp. However, if you attempt an altitude of 5000 meters for the first time, I recommend going the regular route instead of going through Rinjo, Gokyo, or Amphu Lapcha pass. This path will save you energy by avoiding extra passes through rough terrain that could throw off your system more than necessary- it also means reaching Base Camp faster with less wear and tear on yourself!
The best way to Hike up to Mount Everest is via places Namche, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Base Camp.
When hiking up Everest Base Camp, the most important thing is to ensure an extra day at 3400 meters in Namche and 4400 Dingboche. There are many reasons why you should do so. The most important of these is that they will make your body adapt slowly, helping with the acclimatization process. which allows for further progress to the mountain.
PRE-PHYSICAL TRAINING for EVEREST BASE CAMP TREKKING
Trekking is an enriching experience but can also be mentally and physically challenging. I’m not an expert on Trekking training, but from my years of experience as a guide in the Himalayas, I’ve seen that people who exercise regularly tend to be much more successful during their Trekking, as well in Everest Base Camp Trekking. This is because they’re less likely to suffer from altitude and have more stamina and endurance. Of course, Trekking is still a challenge for even the fittest person, but regular exercise can help improve your Everest Base Camp Trekking experience. So you’re thinking about going on a Trekking adventure, make sure you do some training first! It’ll make all the difference in the world.
But you don’t need to be an ironman or -a woman to go Trekking; you need to do regular essential exercise with some weekend hikes. The following are training recommendations according to my experience:
- Regular exercise includes running, swimming, or bicycling for at least 45 minutes, five times a week. Or as you prefer, but training should be based on cardio.
- Add 5 minutes of simple breathing exercise after your workout; you can find lots of videos on youtube.
- If possible, do some simple yoga twice weekly to release muscle tension.
- Taking a staircase is an excellent way to gain extra leg muscles.
- But going for a hike with your backpack at least two times a week for not less than 3 hours is even better. According to your trekking plan, the bag’s weight should be about 6 to 9 kg. And remember to use your trekking boots for a hike.
- Training to hike with the two poles is also essential. I have met many knee issues because they didn’t use sticks in hiking.
GEAR FOR EVEREST BASE CAMP TREKKING
Any Everest Base Camp trekking is incomplete without the proper gear. Everything you bring, from your boots to your backpack, must be up for the challenge. Here are a few examples of Everest Base Camp trekking gear examples to help create the perfect packing list.
- HEAD
Lamp
Sunblock Cap
Hat
Sunglass
Suncream 50+
Buff - UPPER BODY
Hardshell Jacket (5 layers)
Down jacket or super-insulated jacket
Fleece pullover
Polar jacket
Merino undergarment
Gloves, at least 2 to 3 pairs - LOWER BODY
Hardshell pants (5 layers)
Polar pant (stretchable)
Merino undergarments - FEET
Waterproof Gortex shoes
Waterproof trail shoes
Smart wool socks
Gaiter
Snow spikes - OTHERS
Pole (Sticks) essential
Sleeping bag (comfort depends according to your trekking type)
Backpack (size depends on your trekking type)
Water bottle and Thermos
Multivitamin tablets
Dry nuts, bars, and other snacks
Personal First Aid Kit (with high altitude medicine and a Thermo accident blanket)
You can also rent some trekking materials in Kathmandu, such as a down jacket or sleeping bag.
SOME IMPORTANT POINTS TO CHECK IF YOU ARE PLANNING TO EVEREST BASE CAMP TREKKING
- Covid entry formalities
- Cancellation and rescue insurance
- If you are taking a Drone camera, You need a permit from the Ministry of Nepal; you need special permits.
In Conclusion:
If you are looking for an adventure and want to experience something different than what you have done before, Everest Base Camp trekking is a great option! Just make sure you do your research, prepare well, and take the necessary gear with you. We would love to hear about your trekking experiences – let us know in the comments below
