Everest Base Camp Trek Cost Breakdown – 12 Days Itinerary
The Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek is one of the most iconic trekking adventures in Nepal, attracting travelers from all over the world. Before setting out on this unforgettable journey, it’s important to understand the cost structure. The overall cost of the Everest Base Camp Trek usually depends on group size, level of service (basic tea house or luxury lodges), and whether you hire guides and porters.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the approximate expenses for a classic 12-day trek from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp and back.
Flights Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu
The trek begins with a scenic 30–35 minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region.
- Cost: USD 449 per foreigner (round trip).
If you hire a guide from Kathmandu, you’ll also need to cover their flight.
- Guide’s flight: USD 120 (round trip).
Trekking Permits
Two permits are required for the Everest region:
- Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Fee: USD 30 per person.
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit: USD 30 per person.
Licensed Trekking Guide
Hiring a guide is highly recommended for safety, navigation, cultural insights, and logistics.
- Guide daily wage: USD 25, which includes salary, meals, accommodation, and insurance.
- For 12 days: USD 300.
Porter Service (Optional)
A porter can carry up to 20–25 kg of luggage, which makes trekking easier and more enjoyable. Porters are usually hired directly from Lukla.
- Porter daily wage: USD 20, which covers meals, accommodation, salary, and insurance.
- Typically hired for 11 trekking days: USD 220.
Meals and Accommodation
Tea houses along the trail provide basic but comfortable lodging and meals. On average, trekkers spend around USD 35 per day on meals, drinks, and accommodation. For 12 days: USD 420.
Note: If you prefer luxury options like Yeti Mountain Home or Hotel Everest View, food and lodging costs will be significantly higher.
Total Estimated Cost (12 Days EBC Trek)
- Flight Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu (trekker): USD 449
- Guide flight: USD 120
- Permits: USD 60
- Guide wage (12 days): USD 300
- Porter wage (11 days): USD 220
- Meals & accommodation (12 days): USD 420
Grand Total: USD 1,589 per person (including guide and porter).
Cost Variations
- Budget trek (without porter, staying in simple tea houses): Around USD 1,100–1,300.
- Standard trek (with guide and porter): Around USD 1,500–1,800.
- Luxury trek (with helicopter return and luxury lodges): Between USD 3,500–7,000 per person, depending on comfort level.
Final Thoughts
The Everest Base Camp trek offers incredible value when you consider the once-in-a-lifetime experience of trekking to the foot of the world’s highest mountain. By understanding the cost breakdown, you can plan your budget effectively and decide whether to trek in a budget-friendly way, with standard services, or in full luxury.
