EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK (FAST-PACED)
The route on our Everest Base Camp (Fast-Paced) Trek is the same as on the Everest Base Camp Trek; but the pace is faster. Hence, this journey is 15 days rather than 19 days as on our standard Everest Base Camp Trek. The ascent on both treks is similar minus one day at Pangboche and one day at Dughla. And the descent back to Lukla is in three days rather than four days. Thus, this trek is ideal for those who do not have as much time but who are also in good shape.
Khumbu is the home of Mount Everest (8,850m) – better known as Sagarmatha among Nepalis and Chomolongma among the Sherpas. Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Everest, Cho-Oyu, Pumori, Tarboche and Cholatse dominate the skyline on this trek. The goal is to reach the Everest Base Camp from where hundreds of climbers attempt to summit the world’s highest mountain.
THE TREK
On the Everest Base Camp trek you will be rewarded with daily spectacular views of towering mountains. Cholatse and Amadablam loom over the skyline as you trek from Tengboche to Dingboche. From Gorakshep at 17,100 feet, your highest camp, hike to the Everest Base Camp. Also climb Kalapathar (18,195 ft) for an up-close view of the south face of Everest.
If you prefer more time to acclimatize, check out our 19-day Everest Base Camp Trek. Additionally, if you have more time and wish to be more adventurous, check out the Ultimate Everest Trek. This involves crossing the Cho La pass (Everest Base Camp to Gokyo lake) and the Renjo La pass (from Gokyo lake to Thame). Furthermore, an even more physically challenging trek is the Everest Three Passes Trek. This trek involves crossing the Kongma La pass (Chukkung to Lobuche) besides the Cho La pass and the Renjo La pass. No climbing skills are required for these treks. We are also happy to customize any of these treks for you.
ACCOMMODATION AND MEALS
The Everest Base Camp Trek is a lodge trek. This means you will sleep and eat meals in local lodges along the trail. The quality of the lodges on this trek are the best among all trekking trails in Nepal. And several lodges on the trail have en suite rooms with hot showers. Meals are also quite varied with many options including rice with veggies, noodles, local breads etc. Read our article about food options on Everest treks.
BEST SEASON
Like most treks in Nepal, the best seasons for the Everest Base Camp trek are Spring (March-May) and Autumn (October-November). Also, it is also possible to do this trek in Winter months of December, January and February if you do not intend to cross the passes. While it will obviously be very cold (upto -20 C/, -4 F), it will be less crowded as there aren’t as many trekkers in the area.
TREK RATING
The Fast paced Everest Base Camp trek is rated “CHALLENGING”. It is rated 5 on a rating scale from 1 (easy) to 5 (challenging). The highest altitude reached is at Kalapathar (5,545 m/19,195) and the highest overnight elevation is at Gorakshep (5,212m/17,100 feet). There are two acclimatization days to allow for proper acclimatization. Average daily hiking times is 6 hours with one long day of around 7 hours on the optional day hike to the Everest Base Camp. It is important to prepare for any trek in Nepal. Read our advice on training for treks.
WHY TREK WITH US?
All our Everest Treks are PRIVATE TREKS for a minimum of two participants for a date of your choosing. We do NOT nickel-and-dime on services – all inclusions and exclusions are clearly listed in cost details. Some companies will advertise trips for very low prices but they have a lot of exclusions that is usually not clear. Most of our trekkers are either repeat clients or referrals. We have been in business for over 30 years and we employ only the most professional and friendly staff.
We are also proud to give back to our community through 3 Summits For Nepal managed by Crystal Mountain Treks staff. Contact us to learn more…