Detailed Breakdown
Trekking to Everest Base Camp (EBC) is an amazing adventure, But, it’s important to know the cost to go there. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the Everest Base Camp trekking cost before and after flying from Lukla.
Everest Base camp Trekking Cost : Before Flying to Lukla
Before flying to Lukla, you will pay three expenses. Your trekking package does not cover them. They are: international airfare, visa fees, and travel insurance. Almost all packages include airport pickup, hotel accommodations, and full-board meals.
Cost International Flight to Kathmandu
This is mainly based on your location and time of booking. While you cannot change where you’re coming from, you can save some money by purchasing your travel in advance.
Visa Charge
When you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you can easily obtain an on-arrival visa. Indian nationals do not require a Nepali visa. Citizens of some countries, like Nigeria and Ghana, need to get a Nepali visa from their nearest Nepalese diplomatic missions. They need it before traveling to Nepal.
On-Arrival Visa Cost
15 Days – $30
30 Days – $50
90 Days – $125
Travel Insurance Cost
In the event of a medical emergency, helicopter rescue and medical treatment can cost up to $6,000 per person during the Everest Base Camp Trek. As a result, it is preferable and highly suggested that you obtain travel insurance. Typically, a 30-day travel insurance policy for elevations up to 6,000 meters costs roughly $150. Purchase insurance before coming to Nepal, as there are no insurance packages that provide such coverage.
Hotel Accommodation Cost
Before your trek, you’ll likely spend a few nights in Kathmandu to acclimate and prepare. Budget-friendly hotels are available. But, you can also find more luxurious options. In Kathmandu, hotels ranging from $10 to over $450 per night are available.
From the Lukla Flight Onwards
Cost Domestic Flight to Lukla
A flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is the quickest way to reach the starting point of your trek. The cost of a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla depends on the time of year. This flight prices are generally fixed, so booking in advance is essential. It is estimated to cost $350. This cost is included in the trekking package for those who are trekking through agencies.
Trekking Permits Cost
Trekking to Everest Base Camp (EBC) requires several permits to ensure legal and safe passage through the region. Here are the types of permits you need:
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit:
Sagarmatha National Park Entry permit is required for entering the Sagarmatha National Park. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This permit helps to preserve the natural and cultural heritage of the region. It costs NPR 3000 for international citizens, NPR 1500 for SAARC countries, and NPR 100 with 13% VAT for Nepalis per person. This permit can be obtained in Kathmandu at the Nepal Tourism Board office or at the entrance to the Sagarmatha National Park in Monjo. - Khumbu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit:
Khumbu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit is a local permit that supports the development and maintenance of the Khumbu region. It helps to manage tourism in the area. For all foreign nationalities, it costs NPR 2,000 per person. This permit is available at the permit counter in Lukla or Monjo. - Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (Optional Permit):
Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit is an optional permit. It is required if you are trekking via Jiri. It costs NPR 3000 per person. You can get this permit at Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu. In the past, TIMS cards was used to enter the Everest Region. However, the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Municipality Entry Permit replaced the TIMS Card. This was due to changes in the regulations after decentralisation. The Pasang Lhamu Municipality now owns the permit. The local treasurer’s office is now responsible for collecting the money.
Food and Beverage Costs
During the Everest Base Camp Trek, teahouses offer meals, water, tea and coffee. The cost of meals and beverages get expensive as the altitude increases. This is because everything at higher elevations is transported by helicopter, porter, or yak. It costs on average $30 to $40 a day for food and water.
Accommodation Cost
You can find the basic lodges, known as teahouses on the trekking route. Prices can be higher at higher altitudes. Accommodation costs on the Everest Base Camp trek can range from $15 to $150. The range depends on your choice of teahouses and extra services. Consider these factors when planning your budget. They can help you manage your expenses. They will ensure a comfortable trekking experience.
Gear and Equipment Costs
For a secure and comfortable trekking, you should purchase the necessary gear and equipment before starting the Everest Base Camp trek. Clothing costs vary widely. Thermal tops and bottoms may range from $30 to $60 each. Fleece jackets cost $50 to $100, while down jackets cost $150 to $300. For outer layers, a good waterproof and windproof jacket may set you back $100-$200. The waterproof pants may cost you $50 to $100. Altogether, the total cost for necessary gear and equipment ranges from about $600 to $1,500. It depends on the quality and brands chosen.
Renting is much better if you don’t go trekking all that often. Almost everything you need, from down jackets to backpacks, can be rented for around $1 per day from rental shops in Thamel.
Guide and/or Porter Fees
Your Everest Base Camp Trek package does not include the cost of guides and porters. If you wish to acquire assistance from those professionals, you must hire them separately from the trekking agency. A guide will charge you $30–$50 per day, while a porter will charge you $25–$30 per day.
Tipping Cost
You do not have to leave tips but if you want you can. Tipping is a way to show appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the trekking staff. You can offer them any amount you think is suitable and appropriate. If possible you can tip in Nepalese Rupees (NPR). It will be more convenient for the receivers.
Miscellaneous Expenses
In addition to the primary costs of gear, permits, and guide services, there are several miscellaneous expenses. You should consider then when planning your Everest Base Camp trek.
It includes the cost like internet and charging, hot shower, emergency expenses and personal expenses. Amenities such as hot showers, charging, and wi-fi are not included in the accommodation charge. A hot shower costs an extra $5–$10 per person. Similarly, they can charge you roughly $5 for charging and an additional $5 for wi-fi per stay.
Trekking Cost for Other Treks in the Everest Region
There are also other treks in Everest Region such as Everest View Trek, Everest high pass trek and Gokyo valley Trek. The situation is similar for other Everest region treks. You can estimate costs by multiplying all of the above expenses by the duration of your trek.
Tips to Reduce the Cost to hike to Everest Region
- Make your flight reservation as soon as possible. Likewise, you can check the best time to visit Everest and travel off-season. Everest Base Camp Trekking cost can be lower during off-peak times.
- Choose a local trekking agency. It is both less expensive and provides excellent service.
- If you have extra days and are willing to walk more, you can take a bus or jeep journey to Salleri instead of flying to Lukla.
- Hire your guide in Lukla. Hiring one from Kathmandu will be more expensive. This is because you must pay for the guide’s flight as well.
- Nepali Dal Bhat is significantly less expensive and healthier than other meal options.
- In addition, vegetarian meals are significantly less expensive, fresher, and healthier than non-vegetarian ones.
- You can buy an electric water purifier instead of buying boiled or filtered water every time.
Conclusion:
Trekking to Everest Base Camp is a significant expense, but the experience is priceless. By understanding the costs and planning ahead, you can make this incredible journey fit your budget. Enjoy your trek!
