- Distance: 8-10 km
- Trek duration: 3-4 hours
- This is the starting point for most trekkers, who fly from Kathmandu to Lukla. The trail begins with a gentle descent to Phakding, a small village known for its teahouses.
2. Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m):
- Distance: 11 km
- Trek duration: 5-6 hours
- The trail ascends gradually through rhododendron forests, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Namche Bazaar is a bustling town, often referred to as the gateway to Everest.
3. Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860m):
- Distance: 9 km
- Trek duration: 5-6 hours
- The trail continues to ascend, passing through Sherpa villages and offering spectacular views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, and Mt. Ama Dablam. Tengboche is home to a famous Buddhist monastery.
4. Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m):
- Distance: 10 km
- Trek duration: 5-6 hours
- The trail climbs further, passing through alpine meadows and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Dingboche is a popular stopping point for trekkers to acclimatize.
5. Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910m):
- Distance: 12 km
- Trek duration: 5-6 hours
- The trail continues to ascend through rocky terrain and glaciers. The views of Mt. Pumori and Mt. Mahalangur (Everest) become more prominent. Lobuche is another important stop for acclimatization.
6. Lobuche to Gorakshep (5,164m):
- Distance: 4 km
- Trek duration: 2-3 hours
- The trail ascends steeply to Gorakshep, located at the foot of Mt. Everest. This is the last stop before the Everest Base Camp.
7. Gorakshep to Everest Base Camp (5,364m):
- Distance: 1-2 km
- Trek duration: 1-2 hours
- The final stretch of the trek leads to the Everest Base Camp, located on the Khumbu Glacier. This is the closest point trekkers can get to Mt. Everest without technical mountaineering equipment.