Everest Base Camp Trek: 14 or 15 Days? Which to Choose
Most Everest Base Camp itineraries run 12 to 16 days from Kathmandu. Our standard trip is 14 days, and many travellers ask whether one more day is worth it. The short answer: 14 days is enough for most fit trekkers, and a 15th day is a good idea if you are over 55, new to altitude or flying in a busy season.
What 14 days looks like
- Arrive in Kathmandu.
- Fly to Lukla (2,860 m), walk to Phakding.
- Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m).
- Acclimatisation day in Namche.
- Trek to Tengboche (3,860 m).
- Trek to Dingboche (4,410 m).
- Acclimatisation day in Dingboche.
- Trek to Lobuche (4,940 m).
- Gorak Shep and Everest Base Camp (5,364 m).
- Kala Patthar (5,545 m) at sunrise, descend to Pheriche.
- Trek to Namche.
- Trek to Lukla.
- Fly to Kathmandu.
- Departure.
This follows the usual rule above 3,000 m: gain no more than about 500 m of sleeping altitude a day, with a rest day every 1,000 m. The live day-by-day is on our Everest Base Camp Trek – 14 Days page.
What a 15th day gives you
An extra day is usually used in one of two ways:
- A third acclimatisation day, often in Lobuche or Pheriche, which lowers the risk of altitude sickness before Gorak Shep.
- A spare day in Kathmandu in case the Lukla flight is delayed by cloud. Delays of a day or more are common in spring and autumn.
Neither changes the route; both make the trip less rushed. We can add a 15th day for the cost of one extra night and day of guiding.
Who should choose 15 days
- First time above 4,000 m
- Over 55, or with a history of altitude headaches
- Travelling in peak October or April, when flight delays are more likely
- Tight international flights home that you cannot change
If you have trekked at altitude before and your flight home is flexible, 14 days works well.
Longer options from the same start
- Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp – 17 Days: adds the turquoise Gokyo lakes, Gokyo Ri and the Cho La pass.
- Everest Three High Passes – 20 Days: the full loop over Renjo La, Cho La and Kongma La, for experienced trekkers.
- Island Peak with Everest Base Camp – 18 Days: adds a 6,189 m summit.
How fit do you need to be?
You walk 5–7 hours most days on rocky trails. If you can hike for six hours on hills with a light daypack, you can do it. Train for two to three months with long walks, stairs or cycling.
What it costs
Our Everest Base Camp Trek – 14 Days starts from $1,350 per person, including Lukla flights, a licensed guide who speaks English or Spanish, porters, teahouses, meals and permits. Ask us for a 15-day quote.