Everest Base Camp Trek Cost Breakdown 2025: A Guide for All Trekkers

The Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek is an adventure of a lifetime, drawing trekkers from all over the world to experience the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes and the chance to stand at the foot of the world's tallest mountain. But how much does it actually cost to trek to Everest Base Camp in 2025? We've put together a detailed breakdown of costs, tips, and options to help you plan your trek efficiently and effectively.

Why Trek to Everest Base Camp?

The EBC trek is a bucket-list experience for many adventure enthusiasts. This 130-kilometer (round trip) journey takes you through lush forests, quaint villages, and rugged terrain, all leading to the iconic Everest Base Camp at an altitude of 5,364 meters. Along the way, trekkers experience Sherpa hospitality, rich Buddhist culture, and awe-inspiring views of snow-capped peaks like Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and, of course, Mount Everest.

For Indian passport holders, the EBC trek is particularly appealing due to lower costs and easier access, thanks to the close proximity between India and Nepal. Here's everything you need to know about the costs involved in this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Cost Breakdown for the Everest Base Camp Trek

1. Permit Costs

To trek in the Everest region, you'll need several permits. Here’s a breakdown of the required permits and their costs:

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit:

• Cost: NPR 2,000 (Approx. INR 1,250 or USD 15) per person

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit:

• Cost for SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,500 (Approx. INR 950 or USD 12)

• Cost for Other Nationals: NPR 3,000 (Approx. USD 25)

Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (Optional):

If you choose the Jiri or Salleri route instead of flying to Lukla:

• Cost for SAARC Nationals: NPR 1,500 (Approx. INR 950 or USD 12)

• Cost for Other Nationals: NPR 3,000 (Approx. USD 25)

TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System):

• For Independent Trekkers: NPR 2,000 (Approx. INR 1,250 or USD 20)

• For Organized Trekkers: NPR 1,000 (Approx. INR 625 or USD 10)

2. Transportation Costs

Flights to Lukla:

• For Indian Nationals: NPR 18,000 to NPR 20,000 (Approx. INR 11,000–12,500 or USD 150)

• For Foreign Nationals: USD 180–200

Alternatively, you can take a bus or jeep from Kathmandu to Jiri or Salleri and trek to Lukla, which adds a few days to your itinerary but reduces costs:

• Bus to Jiri: NPR 1,000–1,500 (Approx. INR 600–950 or USD 10)

• Jeep to Salleri: NPR 2,500–3,000 (Approx. INR 1,600–1,900 or USD 25)

Local Transportation in Kathmandu:

• Taxis: NPR 500–1,000 (Approx. INR 300–600 or USD 4–8)

• Buses: NPR 20–50 (Approx. INR 12–30 or USD 0.2–0.5)

3. Accommodation Costs

Kathmandu:

• Budget Hotels: NPR 1,000–3,000 (Approx. INR 600–1,900 or USD 8–25) per night

• Mid-range Hotels: NPR 4,000–6,000 (Approx. INR 2,500–3,800 or USD 30–50) per night

On the Trek:

• Teahouses: NPR 500–1,000 (Approx. INR 300–600 or USD 4–8) per night

• Dormitory-Style Rooms: NPR 200–300 (Approx. INR 125–190 or USD 2–3) per night

Note: Accommodation costs increase as you ascend higher up the trail.

4. Food and Drink Costs

Meals:

• Breakfast: NPR 300–500 (Approx. INR 190–300 or USD 2–4)

• Lunch/Dinner: NPR 500–800 (Approx. INR 300–500 or USD 4–6)

Drinks:

• Bottled Water: NPR 100–300 (Approx. INR 60–190 or USD 1–3)

• Tea/Coffee: NPR 100–200 (Approx. INR 60–125 or USD 1–2)

Tip: Bring a reusable water bottle and water purification tablets to save on bottled water costs.

5. Guide and Porter Costs

• Guide: NPR 2,500–3,500 per day (Approx. INR 1,600–2,200 or USD 20–30)

• Porter: NPR 2,000–2,500 per day (Approx. INR 1,250–1,600 or USD 15–20)

Hiring a guide and/or porter ensures safety and makes the trek more enjoyable, especially if you're new to high-altitude trekking.

6. Miscellaneous Costs

Gear Rental:

• Sleeping Bag: NPR 200–300 per day (Approx. INR 125–190 or USD 2–3)

• Down Jacket: NPR 300–500 per day (Approx. INR 190–300 or USD 3–4)

Travel Insurance:

• Approx. USD 85–350 (Make sure it covers high-altitude evacuation and trekking above 5,000 meters.) . You can also check out our Everest Base Camp Safety Package for comprehensive coverage.

Tips:

• Guides: NPR 1,000–2,000 per person (Approx. INR 625–1,250 or USD 10–15)

• Porters: NPR 500–1,000 per person (Approx. INR 300–625 or USD 5–10)

Sample Itinerary for Everest Base Camp Trek (14 Days)

Here’s a standard 14-day itinerary for the EBC trek:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel

Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla; trek to Phakding

Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar

Day 4: Rest day in Namche Bazaar (acclimatization)

Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche

Day 6: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche

Day 7: Rest day in Dingboche (acclimatization)

Day 8: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche

Day 9: Trek from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp via Gorakshep; return to Gorakshep

Day 10: Trek from Gorakshep to Kala Patthar; descend to Pheriche

Day 11: Trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar

Day 12: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla

Day 13: Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu

Day 14: Final departure

Tips to Save Money on the EBC Trek

1. Travel in a Group: Sharing costs for guides, porters, and accommodation can significantly reduce expenses.

2. Avoid Luxuries: Opt for budget accommodations and avoid unnecessary expenses like hot showers or Wi-Fi in teahouses.

3. Bring Your Own Gear: Renting gear can add up quickly. Invest in good-quality trekking equipment beforehand.

4. Use Public Transport: Instead of private taxis, use local buses to get around Kathmandu.

5. Plan Off-Season: Trekking during shoulder seasons (March-April or September-October) can help you avoid peak-season rates.

Why Choose ASC 360 Insurance?

At ASC 360, we specialize in adventure safety, offering peace of mind for your Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek and beyond. Here's why adventurers trust us:

• Affordable Prices: Comprehensive safety packages starting at just $85—offering great value compared to competitors.

• Cashless Medical Evacuations: Quick and hassle-free emergency airlifts.

• Expert Local Guides & Porters: Knowledgeable and experienced support every step of the way.

• Tailored Itineraries: Flexible plans designed to suit your unique needs.

• Permit & Equipment Assistance: Simplifying logistics so you can focus on your adventure.

• 24/7 Support: Around-the-clock monitoring to ensure your safety and comfort.

Choose ASC 360 for a secure, worry-free trekking experience without breaking the bank!

The Everest Base Camp trek is an unforgettable adventure that doesn't have to break the bank. With proper planning and budgeting, you can tailor your trek to suit your needs and preferences. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a first-timer, the experience of standing at the foot of Mount Everest will be worth every penny.

Happy trekking!