The Everest Base Camp Kalapatthar Trek is an exhilarating adventure that takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas. Starting from the village of Lukla, the 11-day trek leads you to Everest Base Camp and back, allowing you to experience the stunning beauty of the Sagarmatha National Park. One of the highlights of this trek is the climb up Kala Patthar, a mountain located near the village of Gorak Shep. Kala Patthar, meaning "black rock," stands at an impressive elevation of 18,176 feet (5,540 meters) and offers unparalleled views of Mount Everest.
The trek to Kala Patthar begins from Gorak Shep, situated at an elevation of 16,814 feet (5,125 meters). The trail winds its way up the rocky mountain, offering a challenging yet rewarding ascent. The round trip distance from Gorak Shep to the Kala Patthar summit is approximately 2.3 miles (3.7 kilometres). While the trek can be completed in about 3 hours, it's important to note that the elevation gain is significant, with a total of 1,362 feet (415 meters).
The Kala Patthar trek presents a unique elevation profile, characterized by uphill climbs and steeper sections compared to other parts of the Everest Base Camp trek. Although there are some flatter sections, be prepared for a continuous uphill climb throughout the journey. It is advisable to acclimatize properly during the trek to avoid altitude sickness, a common risk associated with high-altitude environments. Descending to a lower altitude is the recommended action if any symptoms of altitude sickness occur.
To ensure the best experience, it is typically recommended to climb Kala Patthar for sunrise on day 9 of the trek. The morning hours often provide clearer weather conditions, allowing for breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest. However, an alternative recommendation is to ascend Kala Patthar for sunset in the late afternoon of day 8, but only if the weather is clear. This provides an opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring sight of the setting sun casting its golden hues on the majestic Himalayan peaks.
Throughout the trek, you will pass through various villages, including Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche, before reaching Everest Base Camp. The return journey retraces the route back towards Lukla, mainly downhill and requiring less time due to not needing to acclimatize again. It's important to note that the trek can be physically demanding and requires proper preparation, including physical fitness training and packing essential gear and supplies.
The Everest Base Camp Kalapatthar Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas. It combines the thrill of reaching Everest Base Camp with the breathtaking views from the summit of Kala Patthar, providing an unforgettable adventure.
Itinerary
- Day 01 Arrival at Kathmandu.
- Day 02 Kathmandu and trek preparation, Permits Procedure
- Day 03 Kathmandu to Lukla (Flight) to Phakding
- Day 04 Phakding to Namche Bazaar
- Day 05 Rest day and acclimatization at Namche Bazaar.
- Day 06 Namche to Tengboche
- Day 07 Tengboche to Dingboche
- Day 08 Rest day and Acclimatization Day in Dingboche.
- Day 09 Dingboche to Lobuche
- Day 10 Lobuche to Gorakshep (Afternoon hike to EBC)
- Day 11 Gorakshep to Pheriche (Morning Hike to Kala Patthar)
- Day 12 Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
- Day 13 Namche to Lukla
- Day 14 Lukla to Kathmandu (Flight)
- Day 15 Final Departure
Cost Details
- Airport/Hotel/Airport pick up and transfer by private car/van.
- Accommodation on a twin bed sharing basis with breakfast at Hotel at Kathmandu.
- Domestic flight ticket cost from Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu and airport tax.
- Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek.
- Tea House/Lodge accommodation during the trek.
- 1 experienced helpful and friendly guide, porters (1:2), their food & accommodation, salary, equipment & insurance.
- All transportation by private vehicle.
- Sagarmatha National Park permits.
- All necessary permits.
- Office Service charge.
- All Government Tax
- Any meals (Lunch and Dinner) in Kathmandu other than breakfast.
- Optional day tours at kathmandu
- Travel insurance.
- International airfare to and from Nepal.
- Nepal Tourist Visa fee.
- Items and expenses of personal nature.
- Any kind of alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry, phone calls, internet.
- Personal Trekking Equipment like sleeping bags, and jackets.
- Emergency Evacuation (Helicopter Rescue).
- Any costs which arise due to a change of the itinerary, because of landslides, domestic flight delays, political disturbance, strikes etc.
- Any other costs whatsoever, that are not mentioned in the cost included.
- Horse renting and additional porters due to natural calamities during the trek.
- Tips for guides, porters, drivers...