Everest Base Camp Trek by Road - 18 Days

Everest Base Camp Trek by Road - 18 Days
Everest Base Camp Trek by Road - 18 Days
Everest Base Camp Trek by Road - 18 Days
Quick Overview
Duration18 Days
Trip GradeModerate
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude5,545m
Group Size1-21
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking
Best TimeSpring and Autumn

Everest Base Camp Trek by Road Highlights

  • Start your Everest Base Camp trek by road via the Tham Danda route
  • Skip the Lukla flight and the hassle of flight delay and cancellation.
  • Explore beautiful Sherpa, Rai, Brahmin, and Chhetri villages, along with their lifestyle, in the EBC trek by road route.
  • Follow the classic trekking trail from Paiya to Everest Base Camp, passing Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche.
  • Reach the legendary Everest Base Camp and enjoy the panoramic views of the Himalayas. 
  • Witness the best view from Kalapathar, the best view of Everest, Lhotse, and other peaks is seen. 
  • Travel in a jeep comfortably with a jeep ride connecting you from Kathmandu to Tham Danda, which makes a perfect EBC trekking packagewithout the Lukla flight. 
  • Perfect for adventurers wanting a memorable, peaceful, and scenic journey on the Everest Base Camp trekking itinerary without Lukla.

Overview of the Everest Base Camp Trek by Road 

Do you want an unforgettable journey to Everest Base Camp(EBC) without the hassle of the Lukla Flight? Then the Everest Base Camp trek by road is the perfect idea. This overland tour to Everest Base Camp offers beautiful landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and a safer journey to the world’s highest trekking destination. 

This Everest Base Camp trek by road starts with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Tham Danda. This new road heads to the Khambu region. Skipping Lukla flight means you enjoy the adventure from the very beginning, passing through rural villages, forests, and rivers. 

From Tham Danda, the trail takes you to Paiya, then gradually joins the classic route of Everest Base Camp towards Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and finally the Everest Base Camp itself. This overland route is popular nowadays because it offers more time to see Nepal’s countryside and reduces the unpredictable Lukla flights.

The drive to EBC by jeep is an adventure in itself. This is the perfect alternative to the Lukla flight, ideal for those who’re looking for a road trip to Everest Base Camp. Our Everest Base Camp by Road itinerary is carefully designed so you can adjust to the altitude while still completing the trek within your schedule. During this Kathmandu to EBC by jeep and then trek, you’ll see both the remote mountain life and the stunning Himalayas, all without the Lukla Flight. 

If you’re ready for the Everest Base Camp package that combines a jeep ride, scenic trails, and unforgettable memories, then this road trip to EBC is the best way to go.  

Why should you do the Everest Base Camp By Road instead of the Lukla flight?

Everest Base Camp trek with the Lukla flight is the most common way to start the trek. But not for everyone. Lukla flight can get cancelled or delayed anytime because of the weather. This makes your itinerary disordered. And it’s the main reason why many trekkers are choosing the Everest Base Camp trek by road. A Jeep ride from Kathmandu to Tham Danda avoids the hassle and stress of flights getting cancelled. 

In this Everest Base Camp trek by road trip, you’ll get to enjoy the journey itself, the beautiful villages, rivers, forests, and the mountain views from the start of the journey. This road trek also lets your body to climb slowly and naturally, which means your body can get used to the altitude better. It lowers the chance of Altitude Sickness, which is a common problem if you fly quickly up to Lukla. 

You’ll also get to meet more local people, see traditional Sherpa and Rai villages, and experience Nepal’s mountain culture in a deeper way. This trek is not just about reaching Everest Base Camp: it is about enjoying every step of this adventure. 

If you want a safer and relaxed Everest Base Camp trek without the Lukla flight, then join our EBC by road trek. Bookings for 2025, 2026, and 2027 are open. Push your limits and explore the beauty of the Himalayan regions.

Everest Base Camp by Road: Tham Danda Route Guide

By road: Kathmandu→Tham Danda

Trekking route: Tham Danda→Paiya→Phakding→Namche Bazzar→Tengboche→Dingboche→Lobuche→Gorakshep→Everest Base Camp→Gorakshep→Kala Patthar→Pheriche→Namche Bazaar→Chheplung→Tham Danda

By Road: Tham Danda→Phaplu→Kathmandu

Everest Base Camp Trek by Road - 18 Days Gallery

Everest Base Camp Trek by Road - 18 Days Itinerary

Trip PlanExpand all

Welcome to Nepal. Our team will pick you up from the airport and take you to your hotel. Then we will meet you in the evening and brief you about your upcoming Everest Base Camp Trek by road. 

Max Altitude: (1,400m / 4,593 ft) Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

Drive distance: 10-12 hours

From today, your journey begins. We will start an early drive from Kathmandu. This drive is through the mountain roads, terraced fields, and charming villages until we reach Tham Danda. This is also starting point of our trek. 

Max Altitude: (2,350m / 7,710 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel or Lodges in Tham Danda

Trek Distance: 5-6 hours

We will begin our trek on a beautiful trail through lush forests and traditional Sherpa villages. You’ll cross small suspension bridges and get your first mountain views. We’ll stop for the night at Paiya. It is a peaceful spot surrounded by hills.

Max Altitude: (2,730m / 8,957 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel or Lodge in Paiya

Trek Distance: 6-7 hours

Today’s trek takes us through a mix of forest trails and small settlements. We will gradually enter the Everest region and reach Phakding. It is a popular overnight stop for trekkers heading to Namche Bazaar.

Max Altitude: (2,610m / 8,562 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel or Lodge in Phakding

Trek Distance: 6-7 hours

We will follow the Dudh Koshi River and cross several suspension bridges. We’ll also enter Sangarmatha National Park. Then, the climb up to Namche Bazaar is steep but rewarding, with a stunning view of Everest.

Max Altitude: (3,440m / 11,286 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel or Lodge in Namche Bazaar

A rest day to adjust to the altitude. Explore Namche’s markets, bakeries, and culture. You can also do an optional hike to the viewpoints like Everest View Hotel for panoramic mountain vistas.

Max Altitude: (3,440m / 11,286 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel or Lodge in Namche Bazaar

Trek Distance: 5-6 hours

The trail offers constant views of Ama Dablam before we reach Tengboche Monastery. This is the largest monastery in the Khumbu region.

Max Altitude: (3,860m / 12,664 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel or Lodge in Tengboche

Trek Distance: 5-6 hours

We descend through forests, then gradually climb to Dingboche, surrounded by spectacular Himalayan views. And overnight is at Dingboche.

Max Altitude: (4,410m / 14,468 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel or Lodges in Dingboche

Hike to Nagarjun Hill: 3-4 hours

Today you’ll spend the day acclimatizing, with an optional steep hike to Nagarjun Hill for views of Makalu, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu. 

Max Altitude: (5,100m / 16,732 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel or Lodge in Dingboche

Trek Distance: 5-6 hours

The trekking trail passes through Thukla Pass and the Everest Memorial area before reaching Lobuche.

Max Altitude: (4,940m / 16,207 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel or Lodge in Lobuche

Trek to Gorakshep: 3 hours
Trek to Everest Base Camp: 4-5 hours

Today we’ll trek to Gorakshep early in the morning. After Lunch, trek to the stunning Everest Base Camp and return to Gorakshep for an Overnight.

Max Altitude: (5,164m / 16,942 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel or Lodge in Gorakshep

Trek to Kala Patthar: 2 hours 

Trek to Pheriche: 5-6 hours

An early morning hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) gives you the best close-up view of Everest at sunrise. Then we descend to Pheriche for the night.

Max Altitude: (4,371m / 14,340 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel or Lodge in Pheriche

Trek Distance: 6-7 hours

This day you’ll have a long but scenic descent through forests and Sherpa villages and return to Namche Bazaar.

Max Altitude: (3,440m / 11,286 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel or Lodge in Namche Bazaar

Enjoy and relax at Namche Bazaar. You can also visit local shops, cafes, and cultural sites.

Max Altitude: (3,440m / 11,286 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel or Lodge in Namche Bazaar

Trek Distance: 5-6 hours

Gradual descent through rhododendron forests and traditional Sherpa villages to Chheplung.

Max Altitude: (2,700m / 8,858 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and, DinnerAccommodation: Hotel or Lodge in Chheplung

Trek Distance: 5 hours

Drive Distance: 2 hours

We finally finish our trek at Tham Danda, then take a short drive to Phaplu. 

Max Altitude: (2,413m / 7,917 ft) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Hotel or Lodge in Phaplu

Drive Distance: 9-10 hours

A long but scenic drive back to Kathmandu. In the evening, you can do last-minute shopping or rest.

Max Altitude: (1,400m / 4,593 ft) Meals: Breakfast and LunchAccommodation: Hotel

Our team will drop you off at the airport for your onward journey. Or If you have other plans in Nepal, like going to Pokhara, Chitwan, or other places, then we can arrange your other trips too.

Couldn't find what you're after?Reach out to our travel experts.
Customize Trip

Cost Details

Includes

  • Airport transfers in Kathmandu: stress-free pick-up and drop-off.
  • Road/Jeep transfers to Tham Danda & return 
  • Experienced, certified trekking guide, porter & a driver.
  • Accommodation in cozy lodges or teahouses along the route. 
  • Delicious meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner during trekking days.
  • All trekking permits & park fees: Sagarmatha National Park, TIMS card, and entry charges.
  • Medical & emergency support 
  • Cultural & scenic experiences: Interact with locals and enjoy Himalayan vistas.

Excludes

  • International & domestic flights to/from Nepal.
  • Personal trekking gear (sleeping bags, jackets, trekking poles).
  • Hot showers, battery charging, and Wi-Fi in lodges.
  • Beverages & snacks outside standard meals.
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended for altitude and emergency).
  • Tips for guides, porters, and drivers.
  • Extra activities (helicopter rides, cultural experiences, etc.)

Add-ons & Options

  • Trek by Road & Helicopter Return from Ghorakshep: Trek to Everest Base Camp By road, via the scenic Tham Danda route, skipping Lukla Flight. And on the way back, skip the long road journey and a tiring walk with an optional helicopter ride from Ghorakshep to Kathmandu. This adds your costs around 1100$
  • Trek by Road & Helicopter Return from Lukla: Trek to Everest Base Camp By road, via the scenic Tham Danda route, skipping Lukla Flight. And on the way back, skip the long road journey with an optional helicopter ride from Lukla to Kathmandu. Witness the stunning aerial views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Khumbu glaciers. This adds around $600. 
  • Private Jeep Transfer Along the Route: Instead of shared vehicles, enjoy a private jeep for Kathmandu to Tham Danda or Phaplu to Kathmandu. Comfortable, flexible, and ideal for small groups or families. This adds your costs around $550
  • Special Celebration Nights: Arrange birthday, anniversary, or achievement celebrations at Namche Bazaar or Dingboche with local music, cakes, and warm Himalayan hospitality. It costs around USD 50-70 

Essential Information

Best Time to Go Everest Base Camp Trek by Road

The Best Time for most Trekking in Nepal is during the Spring and Autumn seasons. Which falls from March to May and late September to November. These months offer the clearest skies, stunning mountain views, and comfortable temperatures that make trekking easier. 

During Spring season, you’ll see the blooming rhododendron and other colourful flowers along the trail, which makes the scenery extra beautiful. The weather is warm during the day and chilly at night.

Autumn is the most popular time for trekking because the skies are clear after the monsoon rains, which gives you amazing views of Everest and the surrounding peaks. The weather is cool and dry, perfect for walking long days. 

In the Summer season, which is from June to August, it brings heavy rain and slippery trails. So, monsoon is generally not recommended for the EBC trek. But, if you dare to go during these months, we are all ready to take you. 

The Winter season (December to February) is cold and snowy. But the mountain looks mind-blowing. You can celebrate the Christmas and New Year holiday in Nepal with the Everest Base Camp Trek. The trail is quiet and peaceful. People from Nepal with cheer you during the whole trek. 

So, for the safest Everest Base Camp by road trek you can choose the Spring and Autumn seasons. But if you can bear cold, then you can also trek in the Winter Season. 

Trek Difficulty during Everest Base Camp by Road

The Everest Base Camp Trek by road is a challenging adventure. You need to walk a few extra days from Tham Danda to the classic Lukla route, so your trek will be longer.

The trekking difficulty of Everest Base Camp is moderate to Strenuous. You don’t need technical climbing skills, but you must be ready for the long days of walking with ups and downs in the mountain trails. 

The main challenge is the high altitude. As you go higher, the air gets thinner, and it’s normal to feel short of breath. That’s why the trek is planned with acclimatization days and gradual ascents.

Another thing to remember in the road journey from Kathmandu to Tham Danda can be bumpy and tiring, especially during the rainy season. Even if it’s tough, you’ll get to see scenic views of hills, mountains, rivers, and local villages. 

If you’re used to regular walking, light hiking, or fitness activities, you’ll handle this trek with the right preparation. Taking it slow, drinking enough water, and listening to the guide will make this journey smoother.

Permits required during Everest Base Camp Trek

During Everest Base Camp Trek by Road trip, you’ll need some official permits. These makes your journey legal, safe, and also helps to protect the environment and local communities.The permits that you’ll need are:

Sagarmatha National Park Permit

This permit is required for everyone who’s trekking in the Everest region. The permit fee helps in trail maintenance and wildlife protection. 

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit 

This is another essential permit for the Khambu area. It’s issued by the local government and helps support local communities along the trail.

We will take care of these permits, so you don’t need to worry about the paperwork. Just carry your passport copy and some extra photos. Having these permits ensures your Everest Base Camp trek without Lukla flight is smooth, legal, and tension-free.

Accommodations and Meals on Everest Base Camp Trek by Road

During this Everest Base Camp trek without the Lukla Flight, you’ll stay in comfortable tea houses and lodges along the trails. These are basic but cozy. It gives you warm beds, hot showers, and a chance to relax after a long day of trekking. 

Starting from Tham Danda, you’ll spend the night in lodges or guesthouses. As you trek through villages like Paiya, Kharikhol, and Namche Bazzar, you’ll find local tea houses run by friendly Sherpa families. These places offer a simple yet authentic experience of Nepalese mountain life. 

Meals during the EBC by road trek are hearty and filling. Most tea houses serve Nepali dishes like dal bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), momo (dumplings), and noodles. They also serve simple continental food like pasta, soups, and toast for trekkers who prefer something familiar. 

Even though good foods are available in Everest Base Camp trails, its always a good idea to carry some snacks like energy bars or nuts for the trekking days. Hot tea and coffee are provided by us during the trek. 

By combining the jeep ride to Tham Danda with comfortable stays in local lodges, your Everest Base Camp trekking package without Lukla flight feels safe, cozy and memorable with Himalayan Partner. 

 Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek by Road

Packing List is the key factor for a smooth Everest Base Camp trek by road. Since this trek starts with a jeep ride from Kathmandu to Tham Danda and continues on foot through high-altitude trails, you’ll need a good packing list that keeps you comfortable during the EBC trek.

Clothing:

  • Warm jacket (down or fleece) for high-altitude days
  • Waterproof and windproof outer layer for rain and snow
  • Trekking pants and quick-dry shirts
  • Thermal inner layers for cold nights
  • Comfortable clothes for the jeep ride

Footwear:

  • Sturdy trekking boots with good grip
  • Light shoes or sandals for evenings at tea houses
  • Warm trekking socks

Gear & Essentials:

  • Daypack for your daily trek items
  • Trekking poles (helpful for steep paths)
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen (sun is strong at high altitudes)
  • Hat or cap for sun protection
  • Headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries

Health & Safety:

  • Water bottles or hydration system
  • Personal medications and a basic first-aid kit
  • Lip balm and moisturizer (high-altitude dryness)

Documents & Cash:

  • Photocopies of all your important documents
  • Cash in small denominations and some tea houses don’t accept cards 

Optional but useful:

  • A camera for capturing those stunning views
  • Snacks and energy bars for the trekking days
  • Travel pillow or light blanket for the jeep ride

With this packing list, your Everest Base Camp trekking itinerary without Lukla flight will be comfortable, safe, and fully prepared for both the road journey and high-altitude trekking. 

Travel Tips for Everest Base Camp Trek by Road

Here are some travel tips to make your Everest Base Camp trek by road smooth, safe, and enjoyable.

  1. Start Early and Plan Your Jeep Ride: The drive from Kathmandu to Tham Danda can take around 10-12 hours on rough mountain roads. Starting early ensures you reach your first stop before dark.
  2. Acclimatize Gradually: Since you’re skipping the Lukla flight, the overland trek to Everest Base Camp gives your body more time to adjust to high altitudes. Take it slow, drink plenty of water, and don’t rush.
  3. Carry Enough Cash: Most of the tea houses and lodges along the road and trekking accept cash only. ATMs are limited. So, carrying enough cash is a good decision.
  4. Dress in Layers: Temperature changes fast in the mountains. So, proper layer of cloth helps you to stay comfortable throughout the journey. 
  5. Health & Safety: Carry personal medicines and a small first-aid kit. If you feel altitude sickness symptoms like headache or nausea, inform our guide immediately. 
  6. Stay Connected: Mobile coverage is limited beyond Salleri, so let your family know about communication limitations. Some lodges have Wi-Fi, but don’t rely on it completely.
  7. Respect Local Culture: You’ll pass through Sherpa, Rai, and other villages. Always ask before taking photos and be polite. Interacting with locals is one of the most rewarding parts of the EBC trek road route.
  8. Snacks and Water: Carry energy bars, chocolates, and water. Even though tea houses offer food and drinks, having extra snacks keeps you energized during long trekking days.
  9. Keep Travel Documents Handy: Keep copies of your passport, Permits and other important documents. 
  10. Enjoy the Journey: This trek is not about reaching to Everest Base Camp, it’s about enjoying the scenic drive, local villages, and mountain culture along the way. So, take photos, chat with locals, and enjoy fully. 

Conclusion of Everest Base Camp Trek by Road

The Everest Base Camp Trek by road is like a rollercoaster ride. It’s a mixture of adventure, cultural journey, and a chance to see the Himalayan peaks in a unique way. By skipping the Lukla flight and starting from Tham Danda, you’ll avoid uncertainties, enjoy scenic drives, and gradually acclimatize to high altitudes. 

Along the way, you’ll walk through Sherpa, Rai, and other mountain villages. And also experience authentic Nepali hospitality, and witness those stunning landscapes of Nepal. From Paiya to Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Lobuche, and finally Everest Base Camp, every step is memorable. 

So, if you’re looking for a safe, scenic, and unforgettable way to reach the foot of the world’s highest mountain then this EBC trek by road route is perfect. It combines the jeep ride, local culture, alpine scenery, and the ultimate thrill of standing at Everest Base Camp. It’s a kind of journey you’ll never forget.

Ready to start your adventure? Book your Everest Base Camp trekking package without Lukla flight today with Himalayan Partner and make your Himalayan dream come true.