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Meet the team and review standard →The classic trail climbs gradually from Lukla through Namche, Tengboche, Dingboche and Lobuche before the high overnight at Gorak Shep.
Route at a glance
A visual plan from Kathmandu to the Khumbu
The line is an illustrated planning aid, not a survey map. Distances and trail alignments change with bridges, weather and seasonal diversions.
Acclimatization nights are planned at Namche and Dingboche. Base Camp is a day visit from Gorak Shep; Kala Patthar is optional and higher.
Classic route at a glance
| Stage | Altitude | Route role |
|---|---|---|
| Lukla | 2,860 m | Flight arrival and trailhead |
| Phakding | 2,610 m | Gentle first overnight |
| Namche Bazaar | 3,440 m | Two-night acclimatization base |
| Tengboche / Deboche | 3,860 / 3,820 m | Monastery area and forested stop |
| Dingboche | 4,410 m | Second acclimatization base |
| Lobuche | 4,910 m | Final overnight before Gorak Shep |
| Gorak Shep | 5,164 m | Highest sleeping stop on the classic route |
| Everest Base Camp | 5,364 m | Day visit from Gorak Shep |
| Kala Patthar | about 5,545 m | Optional viewpoint above Gorak Shep |
Where the route gains altitude
The first day descends from Lukla to Phakding, but the second day climbs steeply to Namche. Beyond Namche, the route undulates before the climb to Tengboche and then gains sleeping altitude more consistently toward Dingboche, Lobuche and Gorak Shep.
Acclimatization days at Namche and Dingboche break the ascent into manageable stages. Their short hikes add useful elevation during the day while keeping the sleeping altitude unchanged.
Map-reading limitations
- GPS distance changes with device accuracy, recording settings and side trips.
- Trail diversions can follow bridge maintenance, landslides, snow or local construction.
- An offline map is useful for context but does not replace local guidance, signs or safety decisions.
- Keep spare battery power and never depend on continuous mobile coverage.
Important planning links
Build the complete trek plan
Useful answers
Frequently asked questions
Is the EBC trail well marked?
The main corridor is established and busy in season, but junctions, weather and changing trail conditions can still cause confusion. A licensed local guide provides navigation and safety support.
Does the return use the same route?
Mostly yes. Many itineraries descend via Pheriche rather than repeating Dingboche, then rejoin the trail toward Namche and Lukla.
Can I download an offline map?
Yes. Download it before flying to Lukla, but use it as a backup reference and keep the planned village sequence separately.
Sources and fact-checking
Changing prices, fees, aviation arrangements, local procedures, weather and lodge availability should be reconfirmed before travel. Altitudes, distances and walking times are approximate planning values.
Supports: classic route and destination context. Period: current guidance. Accessed: August 5, 2026.
Supports: protected-area and park-entry context. Period: current reference. Accessed: August 5, 2026.
Supports: World Heritage landscape context. Period: reference record. Accessed: August 5, 2026.
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