Everest Base Camp Trek is the most sought-after trek in the world. This trek alone draws more than 30,000 trekkers from around the world. It wouldn't be wrong to say that every trekker wants to do this trek at least once in their lifetime.
The cost of Everest Base Camp Trek depends on many factors like the route, the travel company you choose, and their services. There is no fixed price for this trek, and it can range from US$ 1100 to US$ 4500. The luxurious trekking package will cost even more. You can complete the trek for as less as $1100.
If you choose to make the low-priced trip, you can complete the trek for less than $1000 as well, but you will have to compromise a lot. You may have to risk your health and safety as well. You can opt for the Everest Base Camp Luxury Trek as well but it will cost you a lot. The service will be top-notch; they will accommodate you in the best available teahouses and luxury lodge in the mountains and star-rated hotels in Kathmandu.
Now let's look at the factors that contribute to the cost of Everest Base Camp Trek.
Cost in Kathmandu
The trek starts in Kathmandu and before you fly to Lukla, you will spend a day or two in Kathmandu. You will stay at one of the hotels in Kathmandu and spend a few bucks on food. The sightseeing of UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu will also add cost.
Cost of Lukla Flight
Your adventure to the base camp of Everest Base Camp starts with the thrilling flight to Lukla. This 30-45 minutes flight to Lukla can cost you approximately US$ 350 dollars. But again, the cost of the flight can vary from season to season.
Cost of Nepal Visa
Every trekker need to buy Nepal Visa for EBC trek and fortunately, the process is simple. You can get the visa on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport and it costs 50 US$ for 30 days visa.
On Arrival Visa Fee at Entry Points
- 15 Days Nepal Tourist Visa – 30 US$
- 30 Days Nepal Tourist Visa – 50 US$
- 90 Days Nepal Tourist Visa – 125 US$
Cost of Trekking Permits
You'll need two permits for the Everest Base Camp Trek:
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- Khumbu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit
The Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit fee is US$ 30 per person and it will cost US$ 20 per person for Khumbu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit. You can buy a national park permit from the Nepal Tourism Board's Office in Kathmandu or at the park's entrance gate in Monjo. And the municipality entrance permit can be obtained from Lukla or Monjo.
Cost of Accommodation and Food
You will stay in local tea houses in the mountains and hotels in Kathmandu. A basic teahouse in the Everest region can cost you around US$ 5. Some teahouses in the higher section can charge you up to $10 per night. The price for accommodation increases as you go higher; the cost of room in Gorakshep is more than in Phakding.
Cost of Guide and Porter
You can go with the guide and porter or do it independently. Hiring a guide and porter for the trek is beneficial for you. Both guide and porter will charge you on a daily basis. Hiring a guide will cost you US$ 30-40 per day and US$ 25-30 a day for a porter.
Cost of Travel Insurance
It is a good idea to buy travel insurance for Everest Base Camp Trek. The trek takes you to a soaring height above 5000m and altitude sickness can be real. Anything can happen and you may face problems like flight cancellation and medical emergencies.
Cost of Trekking Equipment
You can either rent or buy trekking gear and equipment for the Everest Base Camp Trek. If you want to cut the cost, you can rent them in Kathmandu. It can cost you as low as $1 per day to rent trekking boots, a sleeping bag and a down jacket. You can rent missing equipment but buy them if you'll be trekking frequently.
Final Say
The cost for the Everest Base Camp trek can vary from travel company to travel company. The price range for Everest Base Camp Trek is approximately $1100-$4500. You can do a budget Everest Base Camp Trek or opt for a luxury EBC trek. It all depends on your preference, budget and the travel outfitter.
