Everest Base Camp Trek : Complex yet Adventurous Trek Destination

Highlights of the adventure

• Awesome and unique viewpoints
• Heart-warming hospitality of the sherpa people
• Mesmerising mountain sceneries
• Historical Monuments like Kala Pathari, Sagarmatha National Park, Buddhist Monastries etc
• Lifetime achievements upon reaching the base camp
• Experience challenging activities

What are the Key Challenges of the Everest Base Camp Trek?

Need to be Physically Fit

Since the Everest Base Camp Trek is a tough trekking voyage. The trekkers are assumed to be fit both physically and mentally. They should be pyscologically prepare for any challenging environment they might face during the trek. On the physical aspect, one should have a fit and strong body that can carry loads of 4-5 kg on the back for hours. People who are gym-going or always doing activities like running, cycling, and swimming are considered the ideal ones for trekking. This can help in walking through deep steeps, rocky hills, and giant stones. Trekkers are advised to have done cardio 6 months before trekking. If one is a patient of heart or lung disesase then they are expected not to go for trek.

Mountain Sickness

Mountain sickness is quite common in the Everest Base Camp Trek due to the high altitude of 5,364 meters. This is the region where oxygen levels drop significantly. Trekkers often suffer from acute mountain sickness (AMS). So, safety precautions should be taken that include taking proper rest stay hydrated. One can take prescribed medication like acetazolamide.

Unpredictable Weather

The weather around the Everest Base Camp is often unpredictable. It's well-known that the weather forecasts in the winter season of Dec-Jan are usually unbearably cold, and that time is not recommended. In fact, in the monsoon also the weather is also not guaranteed. However, it's the spring season that falls during the months of September to November that gives the best time. But as stated before, the weather can sometimes and can cause a sudden thunderstorm that can scare the trekkers. So, it's important to check the daily weather forecast of Nepal before going for the trek.

Rough Terrain

The Everest Base Camp Trek often cause difficulty to trekkers due to the rugged and diverse terrain in the path. The road, while starting the trek from Lukla is not so tough. However, it gets quite challenging as time passes by. The problem starts after passing the Namche Bazaar. You will find a steep hill there in the way. Followed by some narrow path and altitude strain while moving from Dingboche to Lobuche. The slippery Glacial moraine is another issue that hikers face after walking through Gorak Shep to the Base Camp. Therefore, trekkers are advised to use trekking poles for making proper balance while walking. Also, use grippy boots to make ease at footstep.

What gear is essential for EBC high altitude?

As it's well-known that EBC is at a high altitude (up to 5,364m/17,598ft) and is deadly cold at the base camp. So, a proper gear set can keep every trekker safe from freezing cold and coming danger from a windy storm. You can see the points listed below that help in preparing essential gear before trekking to Everest Base Camp.

• Use heavy clothing upward like a thick down jacket that covers you up for the cold in that area. Make sure to wear thermal set inside to keep warm within the body. Also, use woollen gloves and socks as well.

• Waterproof trekking boots are most recommended for trekking.

• Wear a warm woollen cap or sun hat for protecting head from any kind of difficulty. A neck gaiter and UV-protected sunglasses are also suggested to include in your gear packing list.

• Other essential gears include trekking poles, a hand-held lamp, a sleeping bag, a water bottle, etc.

How to prevent altitude sickness on EBC?

Facing altitude sickness is common during your trek to the Everest Base Camp (EBC). It’s the coldest region in Nepal, and trekking in the area is extremely risky. However, some useful suggestions have been listed below :

• Use the climb high, sleep low rule while trekking. You can hike in higher elevations with full energy and keep your strength low while sleeping. This way, it saves your energy.

• Take frequent breaks in between treks.

• Drink 4-5 litres of water daily. Take high-carb meals for breakfast and lunch.

• Don’t forget to carry an oximeter to keep track on oxygen level.

• Take a consultation with a doctor and get prescribed medicine like acetazolamide, which is an anti-altitude sickness medicine.

Best Season to trek EBC

There are normally two seasons which are best for going trekking at Everest Base Camp(EBC). The first one is the Spring (March to May) and the second one is the Autumn (September to November).

• During the spring season, the weather is very comfortable and less cold, which is a very pleasant time to trek to EBC. The mountains are clearly visible, and sceneries are beautiful with blooming rhododendrons all around. It’s the peak season and is usually overcrowded with a huge number of people.

• The autumn season is also a good season to trek to EBC. The weather conditions during this season are often dry and moist. Though the crowd is less during this season, the simple weather makes it appropriate for trekking.

Get ready for the trek

So, coming to the end, I am hopeful that this article has given a clear concept of the Everest Base Camp. Although many points might be missing in the article, the most important parts have been well-covered. If you are an aspiring trekker who has been planning to experience treks at Everest Base Camp, then this blog can serve to get quick information.