- Small group adventure
- Guaranteed Departures
- Best price guaranteed
Overview And Highlights
Embark on the legendary journey to the foot of the world’s highest peak with the Short Everest Base Camp Trek – 9 Days by Annapurna Encounter. This unique and expertly designed itinerary is crafted for ambitious travelers who want to stand at Everest Base Camp but have limited time in Nepal. While most Everest treks take two weeks or more, our condensed 9-day package allows you to experience all the iconic moments, panoramas, and cultural encounters the region is famous for—without compromising on safety or quality.
Your adventure begins with one of the most exhilarating flights in the world: from Kathmandu to the mountain airstrip at Lukla. The journey continues along the classic Everest trail, following the thundering Dudh Koshi River through alpine forests and past centuries-old villages. Each day offers a new spectacle—crossing iconic suspension bridges adorned with prayer flags, spotting Himalayan wildlife, and enjoying the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people.
A major highlight is Namche Bazaar, the vibrant gateway to Everest and the cultural heart of the Khumbu region. Here, you’ll acclimatize while exploring bustling markets, artisan bakeries, museums, and panoramic viewpoints. As the trail ascends, immerse yourself in authentic Sherpa culture, visit ancient monasteries like those at Pangboche—the oldest in the Khumbu—and witness the spiritual richness that makes this region so unique.
The route carefully balances efficiency and acclimatization. Trekking days are optimized to ensure you ascend safely while maximizing your experience. The air grows thinner as you move beyond the treeline, crossing into dramatic alpine terrain surrounded by the world’s most awe-inspiring peaks. Each step brings you closer to Everest Base Camp (5,170m), a historic site where climbers gather to attempt the world’s greatest summit. Standing here, surrounded by glaciers and colorful expedition tents, you’ll feel the raw energy and excitement of Himalayan mountaineering.
But the adventure doesn’t end there. The next morning, rise early for the challenging climb to Kalapathar (5,550m)—the highest point of your trek and the region’s most renowned viewpoint. From its summit, marvel at the sunrise over Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. The panoramic vistas are simply unforgettable, and for many, this is the most emotional moment of the journey.
As you descend back through Pheriche, Namche Bazaar, and the lush lower valleys, there’s time to reflect on the experience and enjoy more of the Sherpa hospitality. You’ll return to Lukla filled with memories and a profound sense of accomplishment, ready for the scenic flight back to Kathmandu.
Why choose Annapurna Encounter for your Short Everest Base Camp Trek?
We prioritize safety, efficiency, and comfort—combining experienced local guides, carefully planned acclimatization, and seamless logistics. Our 2025 and 2026 departures are updated for the latest trail conditions and offer the best value for time-limited adventurers.
Trip Highlights:
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Complete Everest Base Camp trek in just 9 days—perfect for busy travelers and professionals
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All flights, permits, and logistics expertly managed by Annapurna Encounter
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Explore Namche Bazaar, Pangboche Monastery, and authentic Sherpa villages
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Safe, gradual ascent with key acclimatization stops
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Reach Everest Base Camp (5,170m) and Kalapathar (5,550m)—two of the Himalaya’s top landmarks
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Sunrise views of Everest and neighboring giants from Kalapathar
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Diverse landscapes: lush pine forests, high alpine deserts, and glacial moraines
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Rich Sherpa culture, colorful prayer flags, and mountain hospitality
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Fully supported trek with licensed guides and porters for peace of mind
Join us in 2025 or 2026 for this once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan adventure. Book early to secure your preferred dates, guaranteed Lukla flights, and the best preparation from Nepal’s trusted trekking experts—Annapurna Encounter.
Itinerary Expand All Close All
Early morning transfer to Kathmandu airport for a spectacular 30-minute flight to Lukla (2,860m). Meet your local crew and begin the trek, descending through pine forests and small Sherpa settlements. Cross the Dudh Koshi River and pass through charming villages like Cheplung and Ghat, arriving at Phakding for your first night in the Khumbu.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
2610
Follow the scenic river valley, crossing suspension bridges adorned with prayer flags. Pass through Monjo, the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park. The trail climbs steeply through forests and picturesque Benkar village, with tantalizing glimpses of Thamserku peak. Reach the vibrant mountain town of Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital, nestled in a natural amphitheater.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
3440
Climb gradually out of Namche with panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Pass the famous Everest View Hotel, descend to Phunki Tenga, and cross the Imja Khola. The trail climbs steadily through rhododendron and juniper forests, reaching the historic village of Pangboche—home to the region’s oldest monastery.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
3930
Continue above the tree line into alpine landscapes. Pass the small settlement of Shomare and enjoy increasingly dramatic mountain views. Trek through windswept meadows and cross the river, ascending to Thukla. The area is known for memorials dedicated to climbers lost on Everest—a poignant reminder of the mountain’s history.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
4620
Climb steeply to Lobuche, then traverse the rocky glacial moraine to reach Gorak Shep, the last outpost before Base Camp. After lunch, trek to Everest Base Camp itself—stand among colorful expedition tents and gaze at the Khumbu Icefall. Celebrate this achievement, then return to Gorak Shep for the night.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
5364
Pre-dawn start to ascend Kalapathar, the region’s best viewpoint. Watch sunrise paint Everest and its neighbors gold—this is the trek’s visual highlight. Descend to Gorak Shep for breakfast, then trek down through glacial valleys and rocky terrain to Pheriche, a peaceful yak-grazing village.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
5550
Descend further into lush forests and familiar Sherpa hamlets, retracing your steps through Pangboche and Tengboche. Enjoy new angles on the peaks and more relaxed oxygen levels as you return to Namche Bazaar.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
3440
Trek downhill via Monjo and Phakding, passing through dense pine forests and crossing the Dudh Koshi several times. Reach Lukla by late afternoon and celebrate your trek’s completion with your guides and porters.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
2860
Board an early flight back to Kathmandu, enjoying final aerial views of the Himalayas. Transfer to your hotel, where you can rest and reflect on your unforgettable achievement.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Hotel
Elevation
1350
What Is Included ?
A. Pre-Trip Services
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Airport transfers (pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu)
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Assistance with domestic flight arrangements (Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu)
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Trekking permits (Sagarmatha National Park Permit, Trek card)
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Annapurna Encounter’s trek duffel bag and route map
B. During the Trek
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Return domestic flights (Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu) with airport taxes
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Accommodation in local teahouses/lodges (twin sharing, best available)
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Three meals per trekking day (breakfast, lunch, dinner; vegetarian/non-vegetarian options)
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Experienced, English-speaking government-licensed trekking guide
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Guide's salary, food, insurance, equipment, and lodging
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All standard hot beverages (tea, coffee during meals)
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Welcome/farewell dinners (in Kathmandu, where applicable)
C. Safety & Logistics
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First aid kit and basic medical supplies carried by the guide
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Emergency evacuation coordination (insurance required)
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24/7 support from Annapurna Encounter’s Kathmandu office
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All government taxes and official service charges
What Is Excluded?
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International airfare to/from Nepal
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Nepal entry visa fees
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Meals in Kathmandu (except welcome/farewell dinner)
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Personal trekking gear and equipment
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Personal expenses (drinks, snacks, hot showers, charging, Wi-Fi, laundry)
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Travel insurance (must cover emergency helicopter rescue)
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Tips for guide, porter, and driver (customary, based on satisfaction)
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Additional night(s) in Kathmandu due to flight delays/cancellations or early return from trek
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Any services or costs not explicitly mentioned in “Cost Includes”