Mount Everest Expedition

Quick Overview
Duration41 Days
Trip GradeVery Strenuous
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude8,848.86 meters
Group Size1-20
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesExpedition
Best TimeSpring and Autumn Seasons

Mount Everest Expedition Overview

Climbing Mount Everest, which is the world’s tallest peak at 8,848m, is a dream of every adventure lover. This Everest Expedition isn’t just a climb or a trek, it’s an ultimate experience of a journey into the Himalayas that remains with you for your Lifetime. 

The Everest Expedition journey is a combination of stunning landscapes, rugged trails and the challenges that test your limits, body, and spirit.   

Starting from Kathmandu, the journey takes you through the Sherpa Villages, lush forests, glacial rivers, and high-altitude plateaus. Walking through this route, this trek prepares you for your final summit push. Every day during your trek brings a mixture of scenic beauty, cultural immersion, and physical endurance, culminating in the incredible moment of standing at the top of the world. 

 Unlike the trekking peaks like Island Peak or Mera Peak, Everest is a technical expedition. You will need: 

  • Pre-climb physical training and mental preparation
  • Experience with high-altitude trekking
  • Familiarity with mountaineering gear such as ice axes, crampons, ropes, and harness. 

Everest Expedition is a life-changing achievement.  It is not only about climbing a mountain but it is all about courage, endurance, and the spirit of a human. 

Quick Facts of Mount Everest Expedition

  • Elevation: 8,848.86 m (29,031 ft) 
  • Location: Nepal-China Border (Khumbu Region, Nepal)
  • Climbing Route: South Col Route (via Nepal)
  • Expedition Duration: 60-70 days
  • Best Season: Spring (April-May) & Autumn (Sept-Oct) 
  • Starting Point: Lukla (Flight from Kathmandu to Ramechhap)
  • Base Camp Altitude: 5,364 m 
  • Summit Day Duration: 8-12 hours (from Camp IV to Summit)
  • Camps on Route: Base Camp, Camp I, Camp II, Camp III, Camp IV
  • Total Distance (Round Trip): Around 130km
  • Climb Difficulty: Extreme
  • Temperature: Can drop below -30°C above Camp III
  • Oxygen Support: Required above 7,000 m
  • Permit Cost (Nepal Side): USD 11,000 per climber
  • Total Expedition Cost: USD 35,000 to 80,000+
  • First Ascent: Sir Edmund & Tenxzing Norgay (29 May 1953) 
  • Approx. Success Rate: 60-65%
  • Major Risks: Avalanches, Crevasses, Altitude Sickness, Frostbite    

Why should you do the Mount Everest Expedition?

  • If you’re an experienced climber, then you’ll definitely enjoy the Everest expedition, which is one of the longest expeditions. 
  • You’ll be standing at the top of the highest mountain in the world, which is the best feeling in itself. It is a once-in-a-lifetime achievement. 
  • This expedition is a personal Challenge & Growth for yourself because it pushes your physical and mental limits, which shows you what true strength means.
  • Get to experience the culture, tradition, and lifestyle of the local Sherpa people and their warm hospitality. 
  • Everest Expedition gives you global recognition because summiting Everest earns respect and recognition in the global mountaineering community. 
  • Mount Everest changes you. This mountain teaches humility, patience, and resilience. 
  • You’ll return back home with a story that inspires others to chase their own impossible dreams. 

Mount Everest Expedition Itinerary

Trip PlanExpand all

Welcome to Nepal. As you arrive in Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will pick you up from there, greet you with a warm smile and drop you to the hotel we booked for you. In the evening, you’ll meet your expedition leader and discuss your upcoming adventure and safety protocols.

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

Today is an extra day for you in Kathmandu for preparation and gear inspection. Your climbing permits will be verified today. You’ll also meet the sherpa guide who will accompany you during your climbing period. If you need any extra climbing gear that is missing, then you can buy it today, and if the time allows, you can also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft Accommodation: Hotel
  • Flight: 35 minutes
  • Trek: 3-4 hours | 8 km

In the early morning you’ll take an early flight to Lukla from Kathmandu or Ramechhap. If your flight is from Ramechhap then you’ll go to Ramechhap a day before or at midnight of the same day, so that you don’t miss your Lukla flight. This is a scenic flight through which you can see the magical Himalayan ranges. As you reach to Lukla, you’ll meet your porters at Lukla Airport and your thrilling adventure starts from here. 

Today the trail goes towards Phakding following the Dudh Koshi River and crossing several suspension bridges. After sometimes you’ll reach Phakding for an overnight stay.  

Max Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft Meals: Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Tea house or Lodge

It is an important day to adjust to a higher altitude. You should not skip this day because acclimatization helps your body to adapt the thinner air and prevent Altitude Sickness. Today you’ll also take a short hike to Everest View Hotel at 3,880 m to enjoy the stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.  You can also explore Namche Bazaar, visit the Sherpa Culture Museum, or relax at a local cafe. 

Max Altitude: 3,440m / 11,286 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea house or Lodge

It is an important day to adjust to higher altitude. You should not skip this day because acclimatization helps your body to adapt the thinner air and prevent Altitude Sickness. Today you’ll also take a short hike to Everest View Hotel at 3,880 m to enjoy the stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. You can also explore Namche Bazaar, visit the Sherpa Culture Museum, or relax at a local cafe. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea house or Lodge
  • Trekking Distance: 5-6 hours | 9 km

After breakfast, the trail descends to the Dudh Koshi River before a long and gradual climb through the rhododendron and pine forests to Tengboche. You’ll visit the Tengboche Monastery, which is one of the most beautiful monasteries in the Himalayas, where monks chant prayers against the backdrop of Ama Dablam and Everest. You’ll spend the night at Tengboche.

Max Altitude: 3,870 m / 12,696 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea house or Lodge
  • Trekking Distance: 5-6 hours | 9 km 

We will descend to the Imja River. The trail takes us uphill to Pangboche (3860m) through the lush forest. We will visit Pangboche Monastery. You’ll also see the stunning views of Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and Lhotse. After some time of walking, you’ll reach Dingboche Village. In this village, agriculture is the main occupation of locals. You will stay overnight here. 

Max Altitude: 4,410 m / 14,468 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea house or Lodge

Today is an acclimatization day to adjust the air. You’ll take an optional hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,100 m) or Chhukung Valley, from where the 360° panoramic views of Makalu, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Island Peak are seen. This short acclimatization hike prepares your body to adjust to a high altitude. Spend the afternoon time to explore Dingboche village and resting. 

Max Altitude: 4,410 m / 14,468 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea house or Lodge
  • Trekking Distance: 5-6 hours | 8 km

After breakfast, you will begin a moderate walk to Dugla and the Khumbu Glacier moraine. Along the way, you’ll see memorials of the climbers who lost their lives on Everest. And this place is known as Thukla Pass (4,830 m). Then, continue trekking to Lobuche. This is a beautiful settlement surrounded by towering peaks. Overnight stay in Lobuche.

Max Altitude: 4,940 m / 16,207 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea house or Lodge
  • Trekking Distance: 3-4 hours | 5km 

This day you’ll walk along the rough and glacial trail that leads to Gorak Shep. Gorak Shep is the last teahouse stop before Base Camp. After lunch and rest, you’ll prepare yourself for your big upcoming adventure. Overnight at Ghorak Shep. 

Max Altitude: 5,164 m / 16,942 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea house or Lodge
  • Trekking Distance: 5-6 hours | 5 km 

Today is the day, when you reach the foot of the World’s Highest peak, i.e, Everest Base Camp. You’ll walk through glaciers and rocky moraine to arrive here. When you reach the Base Camp, you’ll meet the full climbing team and set up your expedition tent.

Max Altitude: 5,364 m / 17,598 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tent Camp at Base Camp

It’s a big time because the real climbing begins. During this phase, you’ll do several rotation climbs for acclimatization and training.

  • Camp I (6,065 m): Cross the Khumbu Icefall by using fixed ropes and ladders, which is one of the expedition’s most technical parts. 
  • Camp II (6,400 m): It is situated in the Western Cwm, used as an advanced base camp for rest and acclimatization.

You’ll spend a few nights in each camp, then descend to Base Camp for rest and recovery before the summit push.

Max Altitude: 6,400 m / 20,997 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tent Camp

This is the most challenging and most rewarding stage of your Everest expedition.

  • Camp III (7,200 m): It is located on the steep and icy Lhotse Face. This camp is secured with fixed ropes.
  • Camp IV (7,950 m): Located on the South Col. This is your final high camp before the summit.

The summit push usually begins around midnight. You’ll climb through the Balcony, South Summit, and the Hillary Step before finally reaching the top of the world (8,848.86 m). When you reach at the top of Mount Everest, enjoy the view because very few humans ever witness this. The view from there is beyond imagination. After spending short time at the summit, you’ll safely descend to Camp IV and Base Camp.

Max Altitude: Up to 8,848.86 m / 29,031 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tent Camp
  • Trekking Distance: 5-6 hours | 8km

After your successful Everest Expedition, you’ll clean the Base Camp because we’ll commit to Leave No Trace. Pack up the expedition equipment and begin your descent to Lobuche for the night. 

Max Altitude: 4,940 m / 16,207 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea house or Lodge
  • Trekking Distance: 4-5 hours | 8 km

You’ll descend to Dingboche along the familiar trails. The oxygen feels richer now, and the views are still magical. After some hours of walk you’ll reach Dingboche for your overnight stay. 

Max Altitude: 4,410 m / 14,468 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea house or Lodge
  • Trekking Distance: 5 hours | 11 km

Descend through the alpine meadows and rhododendron forests. You can also visit Tengboche Monastery again to thank for a safe climb. You’ll reach Tengboche and rest there for the day. 

Max Altitude: 3,870 m / 12,696 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea house or Lodge
  • Trekking Distance: 5-6 hours | 9 km

Enjoy your walk through pine forests and cross suspension bridges. Namche welcomes you back with hot Showers, bakeries and local bars to celebrate your success.

Max Altitude: 3,440 m / 11,286 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea house or Lodge
  • Trekking Distance: 6-7 hours | 20 km

This is your final trekking day that ends at Lukla. It’s time to celebrate with your Sherpa team and reflect on the incredible journey.

Max Altitude: 2,860 m / 9,383 ft Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerAccommodation: Tea house or Lodge

You’ll take a short and scenic flight back to Kathmandu, where your expedition ends. Spend the day in Kathmandu by resting, shopping, and exploring the city. 

Congratulations, you’ve completed one of the most iconic journeys on Earth, i.e., The Mount Everest Expedition. This is the dream of every adventure lover but not everyone can do it successfully. 

Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
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Cost Details

Includes

Expedition Logistics

  • Mount Everest Climbing Permit issued by the government of Nepal. 
  • Sagarmatha National Park entry fee
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fee. 
  • Liaison Officer fees and all government taxes.
  • Trekking route permits and local fees

Accommodation and Meals

  • Hotels in Kathmandu
  • Accommodation during the trek in tea houses or Lodges
  • Accommodation during the climb in Tent. 
  • Full board meal during the whole package (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
  • Boiled and purified drinking water during trek and base camp stay

Professional Support

  • Experienced expedition leader / IFMGA guide and Sherpa climbing team.
  • 1:1 personal climbing Sherpa ratio for summit push.
  • Base Camp cook and kitchen staff with full meal service.
  • All wages, insurance, equipment, and transportation for local staff.
  • Porters for luggage and expedition equipment.

Equipment & Safety

  • Dining tent, communication tent (satellite/radio), and sleeping tents.
  • Solar lighting and heating system at Base Camp.
  • Fixed ropes, snow bars, and shared climbing hardware.
  • Medical oxygen and first aid kits.
  • Garbage management and eco-friendly waste handling.

Transportation

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off service
  • Domestic flight: Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu (or Ramechhap-Lukla-Ramechhap).
  • All ground transportation in private vehicles as per itinerary.

Logistics & Other Services

  • All necessary local logistics and coordination support.
  • All government taxes and service charges. 

Excludes

Personal Expenses

  • International flights to/from Nepal.
  • Nepal visa fees (USD 30 for 15 days / USD 50 for 30 days).
  • Personal trekking & climbing gear (boots, crampons, sleeping bag, down suit, etc.).
  • Extra hotel nights in Kathmandu for early return or delay.

Insurance & Emergencies

  • Travel & high-altitude evacuation insurance is mandatory
  • Helicopter rescue charges in case of emergency.
  • Personal medical bills and medications.

Miscellaneous

  • Meals in Kathmandu other than those specified.
  • Tips for Sherpa guides, porters, and Base Camp staff.
  • Any costs caused by delays, natural disasters, or political unrest.
  • Optional services such as satellite phone calls, internet, or personal porter beyond package allowance.

Essential Information

Gear and Packing List

Packing for Mount Everest Expedition is not a small task. You’ll need every thing from high-altitude clothing to technical climbing gear, every item matters for safety, comfort and for a successful expedition. 

We’ve already created a complete guide that covers everything you need, from clothing layers to climbing equipment, camping gear, and personal items. 

Check our detailed Packing List for Peak Climbing in Nepal to make sure you’re fully prepared for the Everest Expedition.  This guide includes every essential things so don’t miss anything before you start your journey.  

Altitude Sickness and Safety Tips for Everest Expedition

Climbing Mount Everest is one of the toughest climbs in the world. Altitude Sickness makes it very challenging for every climber. Here’s some essential safety and altitude tips to stay healthy and strong throughout your expedition:

  • Understand the risk: Altitude sickness (AMS) is common above 3,000m and can worsen as you climb higher toward Everest Base Camp and beyond. You need to know this and stay prepared mentally. 
  • Acclimatize properly: Take rest days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche to let your body adjust before higher camps.
  • Follow the rule of Climb High and Sleep Low: Ascend gradually but avoid gaining more than 500m in sleeping altitude per day.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and warm fluids because dehydration increases AMS risk.
  • Avoid alcohol and smoking: Both reduce oxygen absorption and slow acclimatization. So you need to avoid these. 
  • Monitor symptoms: Headache, nausea, and dizziness are the signs of AMS, so you should not ignore them and tell your guide immediately.  
  • Descend if severe: If you feel confusion, shortness of breath, or chest tightness, descend immediately to a lower altitude because climbing is not worth your life. 
  • Medication: Carry Diamox, which is commonly used for altitude prevention, but take only under a doctor’s advice.
  • Oxygen support: Extra oxygen cylinders and portable hyperbaric chambers are available at base camp for emergencies. We’ll provide you with enough oxygen.
  • Train well: Prepare your body months before the climb with cardio, endurance, and altitude simulation training.
  • Helicopter evacuation: It is available from Base Camp in case of emergency medical conditions.
  • Stay with your guide: Always follow your climbing Sherpa or expedition leader’s instructions for your safety.

Altitude Sickness Awareness 

  • Start Slow, Climb High, and Sleep Low: Don’t rush because you’re not in a race. Also, acclimatization days are non-negotiable. Follow the rotation schedule between Base Camp, Camps I, II, and III. 
  • Know the Symptoms: Headache, nausea, loss of appetite, dizziness, and fatigue mean your body is struggling. Never ignore early signs. 
  • Immediate Action: Descend at least 500m if symptoms worsen. Supplemental oxygen and rest can save lives. 

Food and Accommodation During the Everest Expedition

Food and Accommodation on the Everest Expedition are designed to keep climbers strong, healthy, and comfortable in extreme conditions. From cozy teahouses in lower regions to the tents in high-altitude base camps, every thing is planned for your endurance and safety. 

Food

  • In the lower regions from Lukla to Dingboche, you’ll eat in teahouses where they serve hot meals such as Dal Bhat Tarkari, noodles, pasta, fried rice, eggs, pancakes, and soups. 
  • At Everest Base Camp, high-calorie meals are prepared by professional cooks and may include rice, lentils, curry, vegetables, pasta, meat (if available), soups, and energy-rich snacks. 
  • After the climb starts from Camp I, the food is made light and easy to carry. Such as instant noodles, energy gels, chocolate bars, nuts, and freeze-dried meals.
  • Hot drinks: Besides tea and Coffee, soups are also given for you to stay hydrated and warm.  

Water: It is either boiled or purified water that is given to make sure you drink lots of water to prevent altitude sickness.  

Accommodation

  • Tea Houses from Lukla to Lobuche are clean and simple. These lodges and Tea houses have twin-sharing rooms and common dining halls. 
  • In Everest Base Camp: Temporary tents of the expedition with foam mattresses, pillows, and warm sleeping bags. These are also tents for dining and communication. 
  • During High Camps I to IV: The accommodation is in small portable two-person alpine tents used by climbers and Sherpas. They are compact, wind-resistant and made for extreme cold. 
  • Hygiene:There are only a few showers and toilets available at the high camps, so bring wet wipes and warm towels for your personal hygiene. 

Best Season for Everest Expedition

Choosing the perfect season for an Everest Expedition is the most crucial decision a climber has to make. Weather conditions in the Himalayas are really hard to predict, and the timing of your ascent will have the biggest impact on your chances of success and your safety while climbing Mount Everest. 

Spring Season

The Spring Season is one of the most suitable times for the Mount Everest Expedition. The weather is quiet stable, the sky is clear, and the wind is also not so strong in the higher camps. These few months are the best ones to Everest summit attempts to be successful. 

  • Good weather conditions allow the body to get used to the altitude and high altitude training can be done. 
  • There are lot’s of people at Everest Base Camp in this season, so the route is full of energy and well supported. 
  • This season also has very good light conditions for taking pictures. 
  • Climbing Mount Everest is not just about strength

Autumn Season

The Autumn season or the fall period in Nepal is equally good for climbing Mount Everest. Once the monsoon is over, the sky is usually clear, and the views of the mountains are stunning. This season's offers: 

  •  Less crowded crowds than the spring season and a quiet Bse Camp vibe. 
  • Uncomfortably cold conditions can be expected above Camp II, but those who are well-prepared and experienced climbers can handle it. 
  • Good weather windows for summit attempts. 

Winter & Monsoon Season 

Winter and Monsoon seasons are not commonly used for Mount Everest expeditions: 

  • Monsoon brings heavy rainfall, landslides, and flight delays to Lukla. 
  • Winter brings severe cold and strong winds near the summit. 
  • These months are perfect only for the trek to the Everest Base Camp and not for the climbing to the summit. 
  • Tip: Most successful climbers choose late April to mid-May, when Everest weather is most stable, making it the best season to climb Everest safely and successfully. 

Climbing route during Everest Expedition

The South Col Route from Nepal is the most popular and widely used trail for Everest expeditions. It offers a challenging yet safer path with excellent logistics, Sherpa support, and rescue access.

Route Breakdown:

  • Everest Base Camp (5,364 m):  Acclimatization, training, and preparation zone.
  • Camp I (6,065 m): Cross the Khumbu Icefall, one of the most dangerous sections.
  • Camp II (6,400 m): Located in the Western Cwm, used as an advanced base for acclimatization.
  • Camp III (7,200 m): Climbers ascend the steep Lhotse Face using fixed ropes.
  • Camp IV (7,920 m): Known as the South Col, this is the launching point for the final summit push.
  • Summit (8,848.86 m): The roof of the world! Climbers traverse the Hillary Step before reaching the top.

Conclusion

The Mount Everest Expedition isn’t just a climb. It is a journey of courage, patience, and determination. Standing at the top of the world’s highest peak 8,848.86 m / 29,031 ft is a lifelong dream for many adventure lovers. Reaching here not only requires strength but, it requires planning, teamwork, and a spirit. 

From the first step in Lukla to the top of the Mount Everest, every step has memories and stories to tell. This memory is something that lasts with you forever. With a proper training, safety planning, and expert guides, your dream of summiting Everest can turn into a proud reality. 

Join Himalayan Partner for the successful Mount Everest Expedition. From logestics and permits to professional Sherpa support, we handle every detail  so that you can truly focus only in your expedition. So, with the right guidance and planning we’ll make sure that your dream turns to reality. 

Mount Everest Expedition FAQs

Mount Everest stands at 8,848.86 meters (29,031 feet) above sea level, making it the highest mountain in the world.

A full Everest Expedition usually takes 40-50 days, including trekking to Base Camp, acclimatization rotations, and summit attempts.

The average cost ranges from USD 40,000 to 50,000+, depending on the expedition operator, logistics, and support level.

The best climbing windows are Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) when the weather is relatively stable and visibility is clear.

You’ll need the following permits:

  • Everest Climbing Permit 
  • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit

The expedition starts with a flight to Lukla from Kathmandu or Ramechhap, followed by a trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m).

Yes. The expedition involves high risks such as altitude sickness, avalanches, frostbite, crevasses, and extreme weather conditions. Proper preparation and experienced guides are essential.

Yes. Supplemental oxygen is typically used above 7,000 meters, especially from Camp III onward, to handle thin air and prevent altitude sickness.

Temperatures can drop to -30°C or lower above Camp III, especially during summit nights.

Sir Edmund Hillary (New Zealand) and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa (Nepal) successfully reached the summit on May 29, 1953.

Climbers must have excellent physical fitness, previous experience on 6,000-7,000 m peaks, and strong mental endurance.

The average success rate ranges from 60%-65%, depending on weather conditions and climber experience.

No. Everest is only recommended for experienced mountaineers who have already climbed several high-altitude peaks.

Helicopter rescue is available up to Camp II (around 6,400 m) in emergencies. Above that, rescue depends on the weather and available manpower.