What is the Complete Price Range for the Everest Base Camp Trek in 2025 and 2026?
Standard Everest Base Camp Trek Package Cost
The standard Everest base camp trek package is one of the most popular options for trekkers who want to follow the classic route to Everest Base Camp in Nepal. The package is perfect for travelers who want the full trekking experience without luxury add-ons.
The regular Everest base camp trek package costs between 1400 USD and 1800 USD and includes the 15-day or 14-day Everest Base Camp Trek. The package includes two mandatory acclimatization days at Namche and Dingboche so that the trekkers can acclimatize to the altitude to have a safer and more comfortable time. Additionally, the package includes accommodation in Kathmandu and teahouses, three meals a day during the trek, and transportation services that include a domestic flight to Lukla. The package also offers a licensed English-speaking guide, porters, and all necessary paperwork and permits. Be informed that these services may vary depending on the tour operators.
The package also includes first aid support with a basic medical kit carried by the guide. In the event of an emergency, helicopter rescue planning is offered, but evacuation charges are not paid for and must be arranged by travel insurance.
Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek Package Cost
The luxury Everest base camp trek package is intended for tourists who want to arrive at Everest Base Camp in greater luxury. It is ideal for travelers who want adventure with hassle-free and comfortable services.
The entire trek, including acclimatization days at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche, takes about 12 days. The luxury Everest base camp trek package costs over 5,000 USD. Trekkers hike up to Everest Base Camp and return to Kathmandu by helicopter from Gorakshep, which makes the journey quicker and more convenient. The package also includes a helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla at the beginning of the trek, allowing for a faster and more comfortable start.
This package offers 5-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and good-quality lodges during the trek. The lodges have phone services, Wi-Fi, delicious meals, nice mattresses, and hot showers. The trekkers are also offered electricity to charge devices, hot water, and drinking water.
Private luxury vehicles for all transportation in Kathmandu are booked by the travel agencies. The package includes all permits and entry fees needed, such as the Sagarmatha National Park Permit, the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Municipality Permit, and the TIMS Card.
How Much Do Everest Base Camp Trek Permits Cost in 2025/2026?
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
To enter the UNESCO-listed Sagarmatha National Park in Nepal, which is home to Mount Everest, visitors must get an entrance permit.
Foreign trekkers need to pay NPR 3,000 (around 23 USD). SAARC nationals, who include travelers from countries like India, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, are required to pay NPR 1,500. The entrance cost for Nepali nationals is NPR 100. Please be aware that all of these fees are subject to a 13% VAT (Value Added Tax). Children under the age of 10 are not charged and can access the park for free.
You must have your passport with you for the permit. The permit can be obtained at the Monjo checkpoint, which is situated at the park's entry, or at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu.
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit
The Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit will cost NPR 3,000 per person (around 25 USD) for up to four weeks for foreigners, and NPR 2000 for SAARC nationals. VAT is not charged on this permit. You can get the permit at Lukla if you are entering by air or at Monjo if you enter from Salleri or Jiri.
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS Card)
While there has been some confusion or reports stating that “TIMS card is no longer required for the Everest Base camp Trek”, it is still mandatory under the new TIMS provision made by the Nepal Tourism Board, which went into effect on March 31, 2023. Trekkers must obtain this card when trekking in specified protected areas, including the Everest region.
The TIMS card costs NPR 1,000 (approximately 7 USD) for SAARC nationals and NPR 2,000 (approximately 15 USD) for other nationals. The card may be acquired by trekkers either from the Nepal Tourism Board or through a licensed trekking agency.
How Much Does the Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla Cost?
The Kathmandu to Lukla airfare is different for Indian nationals and foreigners. Indian nationals usually get a lower fare compared to people from other countries. The flight cost to Lukla Airport in Nepal can change depending on the time of year and demand.
One way flight from Kathmandu to Lukla costs around INR 18,000 for Indian nationals. For other nationals (foreigners other than Indians), it costs around USD 230. During peak trekking seasons like autumn and spring, flights to Lukla are diverted to Ramechhap Airport to avoid overload at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu. Trekkers need to travel from Kathmandu to Ramechhap (Manthali airport) first, then take a flight to Lukla.
The trip from Kathmandu to Ramechhap can be done by tourist bus and costs around USD 30. The cost of the flight from Ramechhap to Lukla is approximately INR 13,000 for Indian nationals and USD 190 for foreign nationals. Note that all flight charges are subject to change.
How Much Should I Budget for Food and Accommodation on the Everest Base Camp Trek?
The price of accommodation and food on the Everest base camp trek is generally covered in most trekking packages. If you are trekking independently, the cost varies according to the comfort you want.
The budget teahouses can range from USD 5 to USD 10 per night. They are basic lodges with regular rooms and limited facilities. If you choose teahouses with better facilities, such as attached bathrooms, charging points, and heated rooms, the price can range from USD 20 to USD 30 per night.
For food, you can expect to spend around USD 25 per day. This covers three meals a day, with each meal costing around USD 8. So, for a 14 to 15-day trek, around USD 300 will be enough for food.
Hot drinks like tea, coffee, and hot chocolate are available in almost every teahouse. These usually cost between USD 1 to USD 5 per cup. As you go higher in altitude, the cost of food and accommodation increases because porters have to carry supplies to these remote areas.
How Much Should I Pay for Guide and Porter Service On the Everest Base Camp Trek?
For just 30 USD per day, you can hire a knowledgeable English-speaking guide for the Everest base camp guided tour. A porter costs around 25 USD per day. These costs include their meals, accommodation, and insurance.
If you want a guide cum porter (combines the roles of both guide and porter), it costs about 30 USD per day. A porter usually carries up to 24 kg of baggage, while a guide cum porter carries around 10 kg.
What Type of Insurance Do I Need for Everest Base Camp Trek and How Much Does it Cost?
If you are planning to trek to Everest base camp, travel insurance is essential. Most of the trekking agencies in Nepal require it due to the challenging terrain, high altitude, and limited medical facilities in the Everest region.
The Everest base camp trek insurance cost ranges from USD120 to USD 200 (INR 2,500–4,500) for basic coverage. However, for comprehensive coverage that includes medical emergencies, helicopter evacuation, trip cancellations, and baggage loss, expect to pay between USD 600 to USD 1200 or more.
One of the most important factors to consider when getting travel insurance is the high altitude coverage. Since EBC is located at an altitude of 5,364 meters, ensure your policy covers trekking up to at least 5,500 meters. Helicopter evacuations from this region can cost up to USD10,000, so it's critical to have insurance that covers this expense. Without proper coverage, you could end up paying a significant amount for evacuation in case of a medical emergency.
Insurance providers like World Nomads, Allianz, ASC 360, IM Global insurance, and True Traveller offer plans specifically designed for high-altitude trekking. Many of these plans include cashless evacuation and emergency medical support.
Everest Base Camp Trek Cost Based on Nationality
What is The Total Cost for Indian Tourists Trekking to Everest Base Camp?
Mount Everest base camp trek cost from India and SAARC countries is comparatively less, ranging from INR 85,000 to INR 110,000, depending on the group size and the package inclusion. Indian travelers typically pay INR 950 for the Sagarmatha National Park entry permit, INR 1,250 for the Khumbu Rural Municipality permit, and INR 625 for the TIMS card.
Flights to Lukla Airport usually cost between INR 18,000 and INR 20,000. If you prefer to avoid the flight, you can take a bus or jeep to Salleri or Jiri, with costs ranging from INR 600 to INR 1,900. The helicopter return or a luxury trek can add an additional INR 200,000 to INR 250,000 to your trip.
Food and accommodation along the route are typically the same for all trekkers, so INR 28,000 should be sufficient for meals. If you're traveling from Delhi, round-trip flights usually cost between INR 12,000 and INR 25,000, depending on the airline and season. For a 14- to 15-day Everest Base Camp trek from Delhi, the total cost is approximately INR 95,000.
How Much Does the Everest Base Camp Trek Cost for International Tourists ?
The Everest base camp trek package price is typically higher for international tourists because the government sets higher prices for permits, transport, and services. All foreign nationals must get three permits: Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit, Sagarmatha National Park Permit, and a TIMS card, which together cost around 55 USD. Food and accommodation usually cost about 350-400 USD per person, and this rate remains the same for both SAARC and non-SAARC travelers.
Transportation adds a major expense to the trek. A one-way flight to Lukla costs over 230 USD, so round-trip flights go beyond 460 USD. Hiring a guide and porter usually costs some 450-500 USD, based on the company of your preference for trekking. Trekkers should also allocate an estimated 500 USD for incidental expenses like hot showers, device charging, snacks, tips, or minor health needs. However, joining a group can lower the cost significantly, since you can share expenses for guides, porters, and sometimes even accommodation.
These are the general Mount Everest base camp trek prices for 2025 and 2026, but they may vary depending on time, season, and policy changes. It’s always a good idea to ask professionals who are active in this field for the most updated costs. Having served more than 5,000 clients from around the world, we understand what it takes to make your journey safe, smooth, and worthwhile. If you’re planning your trek, we’re here to help you make informed choices every step of the way.
What are the Hidden Costs To Watch out for on the Everest Base Camp Trek?
Hidden costs during the Everest Base Camp Trek often sometimes surprise the trekkers as these are not included in their standard trekking package, significantly increasing the overall EBC trekking cost. Below are some of the hidden coWhat are the Hidden Costs to Watch Out for on the Everest Base Camp Trek?sts that travelers often overlook.
- Wifi in teahouses is not free. It costs around 5 USD per hour at the lower altitude from Lukla to Dingboche village and 10- 12 USD per hour at the higher altitudes like Lobuche and Gorakshep. NCELL and NTC networks don't work well in the remote regions of Nepal. Hence, getting an Everest link card is an excellent choice. These cards are available only in the Everest Region, offering prepaid internet cards (50–100 MB) for USD 2– 4, with prices varying by location and season.
- Hot water for showers is a luxury in the mountains. It costs around 5 USD to 10 USD per use. Remember, the price increases as you ascend higher.
- Charging your phone on Everest generally costs anywhere from 5 USD to 10 USD. The cost is generally paid on an hourly basis. Carrying a power bank is a cost-effective way to charge your devices.
- Bottled water is generally expensive on the trail, costing 1 USD – 5 USD per liter. It is generally recommended to bring your reusable water bottle and purify the local water.
- While meals are often included in the package, snacks like chocolate and soft drinks are not. These can cost USD 2 to USD 5 per at higher altitudes.
- In the Everest region, tea houses provide each person with one blanket. You might ask for an additional blanket for an additional 2 USD to 5 USD. Thus, purchasing or renting a sleeping bag is the best option.
- Flights to Lukla often get delayed due to bad weather conditions, which may result in extra accommodation or food expenses in Kathmandu or along the trail, significantly increasing your Nepal Everest base camp trek cost. Therefore, we always recommend keeping 1–2 extra days in your itinerary.
How Can I Reduce My Everest Base Camp Trek Cost Without Compromising the Experience?
The cost of a budget-friendly Everest base camp trek ranges from 700 USD to 1200 USD, depending on your lifestyle and interests. Here's how you can keep your costs low on the Everest base camp trek and still experience this amazing adventure.
- Before you begin your trek, make sure to buy all necessary items like snacks, water purification tablets, and toiletries in Kathmandu. Prices for these essentials are much higher as you go higher in altitude.
- Joining a group trek is one of the most effective ways to reduce your Everest base camp trek cost. When you travel in a group, you share the cost of accommodation, guide, porter, and permits, making the overall trip much more affordable.
- Stick to traditional meals like dal bhat along the trail. It’s not only the most budget-friendly option but also filling, and you often get free refills. Instead of buying bottled water every day, use purified water provided by teahouses or carry water purification tablets to treat tap water.
- Stay in tea houses instead of high-end hotels. Tea houses are simple but comfortable, and they're universally found on the trekking route at very nominal prices.
- If you want to save more, travel during the off-season months of December or February. Air fares, lodging, and other facilities are less expensive in these months. Try to avoid the monsoon period around June and July, though, as the routes can be hazardous.
- Lastly, book your hike in advance. The sooner you reserve, the less expensive it will be, particularly on flights and hotels that do not go down in price during high seasons.
Is Tipping Mandatory on the Everest Base Camp Trek?
While tipping your porter and guide during trekking to Everest Base Camp is not mandatory but it is highly expected and recognized as a way of thanking them for their effort and service. As a general guide, you can tip your trekking guide $10–$15 USD daily and your porter $5–$10 USD daily. Alternatively, you can choose to tip 10–15% of your total trek cost, which is a standard among trekking groups. Some even consider tipping 10–15% of the guide's and porter's total salary to be a decent and appropriate contribution.
But tipping is entirely voluntary. You are not obliged to pay a minimum amount of tip, and you can tip based on your budget and the level of the service you get. If you believe that your guide or porter went out of his or her way to provide you with the best service, tipping is a great way to show your appreciation. But if you were not satisfied with the service, you are not obligated to provide a tip.
Is the Everest Base Camp Trek Worth the Price?
The Nepal Everest base camp trek cost is widely considered to be value for money. Being among one of the most famous treks in the world, it offers breathtaking nature, rich culture, and lifelong excitement. Lonely Planet ranked it number 4 of the world's greatest treks in 2020, praising the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, the ability to experience Sherpa culture, and the great feeling of achievement in reaching the base camp of the world's tallest mountain. Everest Base Camp was the third most popular trek in Forbes Magazine in 2021, along with other famous treks like Machu Picchu and Mount Kilimanjaro.
Although the Mount Everest base camp trekking cost may seem high, it's reasonable for a trek that takes you among some of the tallest mountains on earth, including Mount Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,485m), and Cho Oyu (8,188m). Standing at Kala Patthar (5,550m) and Everest Base Camp (5,364m) is not only physically rewarding but also a personal achievement that most trekkers remember for a lifetime. If you are looking for a trek with wonderful scenery, culture, and a sense of accomplishment, then this trek might be the one that you will never regret. If you would like to know further about the cost of the Everest base camp trek, please feel free to contact the travel planners of Footprint Adventure. We are here to answer you 24/ 7 and tailor the perfect Everest base camp trek package that meets your aspirations.
Conclusion
Everest Base Camp trekking in 2025/2026 is possible on different budgets from low to higher-end accommodations. Much of your spending will go toward trekking permits, round-trip Lukla airfare, meals, and teahouse lodges. The cost of Everest Base Camp trek can vary depending on your group size and season you travel. For example, rates are higher during the peak trekking seasons. Do not forget to add travel insurance to your budgeting it might give you coverage for any unforeseen problems during the trip. If you are a foreigner, keep in mind that permit fees and overall trek expenses tend to become more expensive. You will be saving money if you purchase or rent your gear in Kathmandu and eat local food along the way. In short, having your expenses prior like flights, permits, and daily expenditures will help you prepare and have a trouble-free adventure to the base of the highest mountain in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Everest Base Camp trek cost on average?
On average, the Everest Base Camp trek usually costs between USD1,500 to USD1,700, depending on whether you’re trekking solo or in a group, and the type of amenities you prefer.
Are there any affordable options to fly to Lukla for the Everest Base Camp Trek?
If you want to avoid the flight cost to Lukla, you can take a tourist bus from Kathmandu to Salleri for about USD25 to USD30, then hike for several days to Chaurikharka and connect to the regular trail to Phakding. This can save you around USD200. Note that you’ll need to stay at tea houses along the way.
What is the cost difference between booking with a local Nepali agency versus an international agency?
Booking through an international agency typically costs around USD2,500, while booking with a local Nepali agency costs about USD1,500. The higher cost with international agencies is due to overhead costs, commissions, and the need to work with local agencies.
How much should I tip my guide and porter at the end of the trek?
Although it's customary to tip your guide and porter during the trek. A general recommendation is to tip 10-15% of your trek cost.
What additional cost should I expect if I need emergency helicopter rescue?
If you have high-altitude travel insurance, then your company usually takes care of emergency helicopter rescue. However, if you are not insured, be ready to pay 4,000 USD to 6,000 USD right away, depending on your location and how urgently you need to be evacuated.
