Everest Base Camp Trek – Drive In, Fly Out
Embark on the Everest Base Camp trek with a unique and flexible approach. Instead of relying on the unpredictable flights to Lukla, begin your journey by driving through picturesque hills and charming Sherpa villages that many trekkers overlook. This 17-day itinerary combines an unconventional drive-in route to Payia with the complete Everest Base Camp trail experience, concluding with a quick flight back from Lukla. The plan includes acclimatisation days for your safety, opportunities for cultural immersion in local settlements, and the flexibility to personalise the experience to suit your comfort. Whether you are a first-time trekker or a seasoned adventurer, this route provides an engaging and exciting alternative with ample flexibility.
Trip Highlights
- Drive through remote mountain roads to reach the trailhead at Payia
- Trek to the iconic Everest Base Camp and summit Kala Patthar for unmatched views
- Acclimatisation is built into the itinerary for a safer, smoother trek
- Experience Sherpa culture with fewer tourists on the drive-in route
- Fly out from Lukla to Kathmandu for a faster return
Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary (17 Days)
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
- Airport pick-up
- Transfer to the hotel
- Trek briefing and gear check
Day 2: Kathmandu sightseeing & trek preparation
- Visit Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and Pashupatinath
- Finalise permits and gear
- Rest and preparation
Day 3: Drive to Kharikhola (2,070m)
- 10–11 hour 4WD drive via Okhaldhunga
- Scenic hill and forest views
- Overnight in a local teahouse
Day 4: Drive to Payia (2,730m) + trek to Phakding (2,610m)
- Early morning 4WD drive to Payia
- Start trek on a quiet trail
- Descend to Phakding
Day 5: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
- Cross suspension bridges over Dudh Koshi
- Enter Sagarmatha National Park
- Steep climb to Namche
Day 6: Acclimatisation at Namche
- Hike to Hotel Everest View or Khumjung village
- Explore local markets
- Overnight in Namche
Day 7: Trek to Tengboche (3,860m)
- Panoramic trail with views of Ama Dablam
- Visit Tengboche Monastery
Day 8: Trek to Dingboche (4,410m)
- Gradual ascent through rhododendron forests
- Pass through Pangboche village
Day 9: Acclimatisation at Dingboche
- Hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,100m)
- Rest and hydrate
Day 10: Trek to Lobuche (4,940m)
- Trek through an alpine desert
- Visit the Thukla Pass memorial
Day 11: Trek to Gorak Shep + hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364m)
- Early trek to Gorak Shep
- Drop bags, continue to Everest Base Camp
- Return to Gorak Shep for the night
Day 12: Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) + trek to Pheriche (4,280m)
- Sunrise hike for panoramic views of Everest
- Descend to Pheriche
Day 13: Trek to Namche
- Retrace steps through Pangboche and Tengboche
Day 14: Trek to Lukla
- Final trekking day
- Celebrate with the team in Lukla
Day 15: Fly to Kathmandu
- Morning flight to Kathmandu
- Rest day or optional activities
Day 16: Buffer day (for weather or flight delays)
- Free time in Kathmandu
- Optional shopping or cultural visits
Day 17: Departure
- Airport transfer
- End of trip
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