Interesting facts about Everest base camp trek

Trekking to Everest base camp uncovers interesting facts that make this famous place even more intriguing.

The Everest Base Camp trek boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape, making it a magnet for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The blend of cultural significance, staggering altitudes, and unparalleled natural beauty makes Everest Base Camp a remarkable destination that beckons those seeking both physical and spiritual elevation.

Embarking on the Everest base camp trekking is more than just a walk, it is a journey filled with captivating facts that make the adventure even more interesting.

From diverse wildlife to the ever-changing landscape, each step holds its own story.

Let's explore some interesting facts about the Everest Base Camp trek,

Captivating location

Everest Base Camp is located at the lap of the world’s tallest Mountain “Mount Everest” 8848 meters. Mount Everest is known as Sagarmatha in Nepali and Chomolungma in Tibetan.

The Everest base camp serves as a starting point for those seeking to conquer Everest.

The base camp is surrounded by stunning views of the Himalayan landscape.

It is a special place for trekkers, combining natural beauty, cultural importance, and the exciting challenge of reaching great heights.

Indeed, Everest Base Camp is situated within Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including 118 species of birds such as the rare Himalayan Monal, Red-Billed cough, Blood pheasant, and yellow-billed Chough.

Additionally, rare mammals inhabit the park, including the Red Panda, Musk Deer, Snow leopard, Himalayan black Deer, and Himalayan Thar.

Due to its location on the Khumbu Glacier, the Everest Base Camp is undergoing constant movement.

The glacier's rapid and gradual melting each year contributes to the shifting position of the Everest Base Camp over time.

Age is just a number

The oldest person to reach Everest Base Camp is Niranjan Debnath from Delhi, who achieved this feat at the age of 73 years, 2 months, and 1 day.

He began his trek on March 11, 2023, reaching the base camp in Nepal at an altitude of 5,364 meters on March 18, 2023, guided by a trekking guide.

On the other end of the spectrum, Carter Dallas, a two-year-old Scottish boy, is believed to be the youngest person to reach the base camp.

Accompanied by his parents, he completed the trek on his father's back, reaching the site at 5,364 meters above sea level on October 25 of the previous year.

The Dallas family, originally from Glasgow, is currently on a year-long journey around Asia. The previous youngest record holder was a four-year-old child from the Czech Republic.

Remarkable elevation

One intriguing fact about Everest base camp in Nepal is, it is much higher than most of the mountains surpassing the heights of many prominent mountains in Europe, Antarctica, Africa, and Oceania.

The altitude of Everest Base Camp is an astonishing 5,364 meters, equivalent to 17,598 feet above sea level.

In comparison, the base camp in Tibet stands at 5,150 meters or 16,900 feet above sea level.

To grasp the significance of these numbers, consider that popular mountains such as Mont Blanc, Matterhorn, Mount Rainier, and Mount Cook have altitudes ranging from 3,724 meters to 4,807 meters, significantly lower than the soaring heights of Everest Base Camp.

Highest Placed Hotel, Cafe and Settlement

A fascinating revelation about the Everest Base Camp trek is the existence of the highest-placed hotel, café, and settlement.

The foremost among them is the Hotel Everest View, positioned within the Sagarmatha National Park, acknowledged and recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records in 2004 for its unparalleled elevation of 13,000 feet.

Picture yourself sipping a steaming cup of coffee at an even more astounding altitude of 15,400 feet.

This experience is made possible at the aptly named World’s Highest Bakery Café, situated in Lobuche, Nepal.

Travelers en route to Everest Base Camp encounter this café, becoming an indispensable pitstop in the journey of trekkers tackling one of the world's most significant trekking challenges.

The café not only offers beverages but also surprises patrons with options like beer, coffee, and delectable apple pie.

Additionally, amid the wilderness, they screen documentary movies at night, providing a touch of home comfort for those feeling a bit nostalgic.

As the Everest Base Camp Trek trail concludes, Gorakshep emerges as the final stopping point.

Nestled at an elevation of 5,164 meters, this petite settlement caters to the fundamental needs of numerous trekkers embarking on or completing the Everest Base Camp journey.

Gorakshep stands out as one of the highest settlements with accommodation, reaching about 5,190 meters

The unsung heroes of Everest region

Namche Bazaar, often referred to as the capital of the Sherpa, is a significant tourist hub along the trail to Everest Base Camp trek.

Sherpas, known as the "Kings of the Himalayas" or the "unsung heroes," play a vital role in the region.

As experts in climbing Everest, they have acclimatized to high altitudes from birth. They can carry heavy loads over long distances and perform grueling physical tasks in thin air.

They are the backbone of every successful Everest summit, guiding climbers and trekkers through treacherous terrain, fixing ropes, carrying supplies, and even rescuing people in distress.

Sherpas have lived in the Everest region for generations, giving them an unparalleled understanding of the mountain's dangers and complexities. They know the best routes, the safest places to camp, and the signs of impending danger.

Everest tourism is a major source of income for Nepal. Without Sherpas, this industry would not exist. They are the ones who make it possible for climbers to reach the summit, ensuring their safety and well-being.

Along the trail, Sherpas and their settlements are a common sight, showcasing their deep connection with the Himalayan landscape and their crucial role in the mountaineering community.

Gateway to the Everest Base Camp trek

Lukla Airport, also known as Tenzing-Hillary Airport, serves as the gateway to the Everest Base Camp trek

This small, remote airport nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas is renowned for its short runway, high altitude, and breathtaking approach, making it one of the most thrilling and challenging airports in the world.

Lukla is situated at an altitude of 2,860 meters (9,383 feet), making it one of the highest airports in the world.

Situated just over 200 km from Kathmandu, the capital city, and a mere 65 km from Lukla, which holds the distinction of being the most dangerous airport in Nepal, the trek offers adventurers a thrilling and scenic path to the renowned base camp at the foot of Mount Everest.

Unpredictable weather

The weather at the Everest base camp undergoes frequent and abrupt changes, making it highly unpredictable.

Trekking to Everest Base Camp poses several dangers, including extreme cold, challenging walks, and the risk of altitude sickness (AMS), given that the oxygen level is only around 80%.

EBC, situated at 5364m, experiences chilly nights and cool days even in summer.

It is important to anticipate a temperature decrease of 6°C for every 1000m of ascent.

Despite these challenges, with proper training, preparation, and a resilient mindset, one can successfully overcome these obstacles and experience the awe-inspiring journey to Everest Base Camp.

Choose the best time for Everest Base camp trek-

Choosing the ideal time for the Everest Base Camp trek is very important.

If you love clear mountain views, the best period is from September to February.

For those interested in spotting wild animals, the winter months, specifically from December to February, are optimal.

Birdwatching enthusiasts should plan their journey during the spring months, from March to May.

Lastly, if you want to witness the vibrant wildflowers, the best time is from April to August.

During the climbing or expedition season, particularly in spring, Everest Base Camp transforms into a bustling small town.

The area is adorned with thousands of tents of various shapes and styles.

Facilities such as hot showers, electricity, a helipad, a hospital, waste management systems, telecom towers, and more contribute to the infrastructure of this temporary town.

You cannot see Mount Everest from Everest base camp

Contrary to popular belief, you cannot see the peak of Mount Everest from the base camp itself, as it is hidden behind the eastern ridge.

While Everest base camp offers stunning views of the surrounding Khumbu Icefall and glaciers, the summit of Everest is hidden behind the towering Nuptse peak. It sits in a valley below the Khumbu Icefall, further limiting the visibility of the summit.

You can only see the lower flanks of Everest from that vantage point, you are treated to a splendid view of the infamous Khumbu Icefall.

Even though Everest Base Camp doesn't offer a direct view of Mount, to truly witness the awe-inspiring summit of Everest, you need to ascend Kala Patthar, a peak at 5,643 meters located above EBC.

This short but challenging hike rewards you with panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and the Khumbu Icefall.

You can see more than 100 named and unnamed peaks on the Everest base camp trail

Luxurious EBC trek

Surprisingly, at Everest Base Camp, you can experience amenities like high-speed internet, luxurious lodges, and exquisite food.

All thanks to tourism and modernization! Every year more than 1 lakh trekkers trek to the Everest base camp.

Nowadays you can book luxurious trek to Everest base camp which allows you to experience the majesty of the Himalayas while enjoying the comfort and amenities you deserve.

Instead of basic teahouses, you will get to stay in comfortable lodges with private rooms, attached bathrooms with hot showers and plush bedding.

Imagine waking up to breathtaking mountain views from your cozy window.

You can forget about freeze-dried ration, as you'll be treated to delicious meals prepared by skilled chefs, incorporating fresh local ingredients and international flavors.

Expect a higher price tag compared to a basic trek, but the added comfort and personalized service justify the cost for many.

Two Everest Base Camps

Surprisingly, there are two Everest Base Camps.

One is situated in Nepal and the other in Tibet, China.

Accessing China's side is relatively straightforward by road.

In contrast, reaching Nepal's base camp involves an intriguing journey of over 10-14 days on foot, unless opting for a helicopter ride, which is limited due to altitude constraints, allowing only a brief stop at the base camp for less than an hour.