The Classic Everest Base Camp Trek is the original way to reach Everest Base Camp before Lukla became the main starting point. Instead of flying into the Khumbu, the trek begins with a drive to Shivalaya and continues through the Solu region before joining the main Everest Base Camp trail at Namche Bazaar.
This route is longer than the standard Everest Base Camp Trek, but that is what makes it different. You spend more time on the trail, pass through smaller villages, cross more hills and river valleys, and see another side of the Everest region that many trekkers miss. The gradual ascent also gives your body more time to adjust to the altitude.
The trek ends at Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), the base camp of Mount Everest. Another highlight is the hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m), where you get clear views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, and the Khumbu Icefall.
Classic Everest Base Camp Trek Overview
The trek starts in Kathmandu with a sightseeing tour before driving to Shivalaya. During the first few days, the trail passes through the Solu region, where you walk through farming villages, forests, river valleys, and mountain ridges before reaching Namche Bazaar.
From Namche, the route continues through well-known Sherpa villages such as Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep. Along the way, you cross suspension bridges, walk past prayer wheels, mani walls, and chortens, and visit Tengboche Monastery, the largest monastery in the Khumbu region.
Classic EBC Trek Cost
The Classic Everest Base Camp Trek is a longer itinerary than the standard Lukla route, so the price covers more trekking days and additional logistics before you enter the Khumbu region. The package includes accommodation during the trek, three meals a day on the trail, a licensed trekking guide, required permits, transportation from Kathmandu to Shivalaya, and the flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu.
If you plan to trek with friends or family, the cost per person is lower than a solo trip. We can also adjust the itinerary if you want extra acclimatization days or extend your trek to places like Gokyo Lakes or the Everest Three Passes.
| Group Size |
Price per person |
| 1 person |
USD 1400 |
| 2 - 5 people |
USD 1300 |
Permits Required for the Classic Everest Base Camp Trek
Two permits are required for the Classic Everest Base Camp Trek. They are checked at different points along the trail and are mandatory for all trekkers entering the Everest region.
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
When you book your trek with Good Vibe Adventure, we arrange both permits before your trek begins, so you can focus on the trek without worrying about the paperwork.