Overview

Information on the Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek

The Phaplu to Everest Base Camp Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal and an alternative to the Everest Base Camp Trek. It is a bit lengthy. However, it is considered safe and very attractive. The trek starts in the village of Phaplu and passes through beautiful villages, lush forests, and high mountains.

Along the way, trekkers will have the opportunity to experience the culture and lifestyle of the local Sherpa people, as well as stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. The trek typically takes 14–16 days to complete and requires a moderate level of fitness. These trails are famous because Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa followed them to the summit. To avoid crowds for at least a few days, starting the Everest Base Camp trek from Phaplu or Salleri is a good idea instead of starting from Lukla.

Guide to the Best Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek Routes

There are two main routes for the Phaplu to Everest Base Camp trek: the traditional route and the alternative route.

The traditional route starts in Phaplu and goes through the villages of Chiwong, Bupsa, and Surke, before reaching Everest Base Camp. The alternative route starts in Phaplu and goes through the villages of Chiwong, Bupsa, and Goli. This route is less crowded and offers a more remote wilderness experience. Along both routes, trekkers will pass through beautiful rhododendron forests, traditional Sherpa villages, and stunning views of Mt. Everest and the surrounding peaks.

Why Trek to Phaplu Everest Base Camp?

The Phaplu to Everest Base Camp trek offers a unique and rewarding experience for trekkers who are looking for an off-the-beaten-path trek with stunning views, remote wilderness, and rich cultural experiences. The route is less crowded compared to the traditional route from Lukla. The Phaplu route offers spectacular views of Mt. Everest and the surrounding peaks, including Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. The Phaplu airport is the nearest airport to the trekking trailhead, which makes it more accessible.

Best Time for the Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek

The best time to trek to Everest Base Camp is from September to November and from March to May. From September to November, the weather is clear and dry, providing the best views of the mountain. The temperature during this time is moderate, making it more comfortable for trekking. From March to May, the weather is mild, and the rhododendron forests are in bloom, providing a beautiful display of colorful flowers. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast and trail conditions before planning your trek based on your preferences and physical condition.

Distance and Time Required for the Phaplu Lukla Everest Base Camp Trek

The Phaplu to Everest Base Camp trek distance is approximately 155 kilometers, and the duration is typically 14–16 days. However, the duration of the trek can vary depending on your pace and the route you take. It is always preferable to have some extra days in case of any unexpected situations or for acclimatization according to your requirements. This trek takes you through the beautiful Sherpa villages, lush forests, and stunning mountain views before reaching the base camp of Mount Everest.

Trip Highlights

  • Sherpa Culture
  • Kathmandu – Phaplu Drive
  • Ancient Everest Trekking Trail
  • Namche Bazaar
  • Khumjung Village and Monastery
  • Biggest and Old Tengboche Monastery
  • Everest Base Camp
  • Amazing view of Mt. Everest from Kalapatthar
  •  A Mesmerizing view of the Himalayas every day.

Outline Itinerary

  • Day 01: Arrival Day in Kathmandu.
  • Day 02: Drive to Phaplu By Jeep/Bus. (Around 9 hours drive- 2413m/7,915 ft)
  • Day 03: Trek to Nunthala (Around 9 hours trek- 2,330m/7,643 ft)
  • Day 04: Trek to Bupsa (Around 7 hours trek- 2,070m/6,790ft)
  • Day 05: Trek to Phakding (Around 9 hours trek- 2,610m/ 8,563ft)
  • Day 06: Trek to Namche Bazaar. (Around 7 hours- 3,440m/ 11,286 ft)
  • Day 07: Acclimatize day in Namche Bazaar.
  • Day 08: Trek to Tengboche. (Around 6 hours trek- 3,860m/ 12,661 ft)
  • Day 09: Trek to Dingboche. (Around 6 hours trek- 4,410m/ 14,469 ft.)
  • Day 10: Trek to Lobuche. (Around 6 hours trek- 4,910m/ 16,109 ft.)
  • Day 11: Trek to Gorakshep and hike to Everest base camp (Around 8 hours- 5,364m/ 17,594 ft.)
  • Day 12: Hike to Kalapatther and trek back to Pheriche. (Around 7 hours- 4,240m/ 13,980 ft.)
  • Day 13: Trek to Namche. (Around 8 hours- 3,440m/ 11,286 ft.)
  • Day 14: Trek to Lukla (Around 7 hours- 2,840m/ 9,318 ft.)
  • Day 15: Fly to Manthali/Kathmandu from Lukla.
  • Day 16: Final Departure.

Detail Itinerary

  • Day 01: Arrival Day in Kathmandu.
    As you step off your flight, a warm welcome awaits you from Breeze Adventure airport representative. As you complete the airport formalities, you will be taken to the hotel where you will stay overnight.
    During the drive, we will brief you on the next day's activities, including a city tour. If you feel tired or jet-lagged, feel free to relax and rest at the hotel. Else, you can explore the bustling tourist market of Thamel.
    • Kathmandu
    • Breakfast
    • Hotel Sapana Garden/ Thamel Park
    • 1400
  • Day 02: Drive to Phaplu By Jeep/Bus. (Around 9 hours drive- 2413m/7,915 ft)
    Early start at 6 am in a local jeep/bus, with lunch, tea, and pee breaks on the way. Enjoy views of mountains, rivers, forests, stupas, and villages on winding mountain roads via Dhulikhel and BP Highway. We will stop at Patale for clear views of the Himalayan peaks. We might arrive in Phaplu around 4-5 pm and wait there to see the beautiful sunset over the Himalayas. Overnight in Phaplu.
    • Phaplu
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Tea House
    • 2413
  • Day 03: Trek to Nunthala (Around 9 hours trek- 2,330m/7,643 ft)
    We will trek through stunning forests, majestic mountains, babbling springs, traditional mani walls, quaint villages, and lush paddy fields with glimpses of Mt. Numbur on the horizon.
    We'll make our way through the picturesque Rigmo village before climbing up to the Taksindu La Pass (3070m) where we'll be treated to breathtaking views. We'll also visit the historic Takshindu Gompa along the trail. We'll then continue on and descend to Nunthala where we'll spend the night.
    • Nunthala
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Tea House
    • 2330m
  • Day 04: Trek to Bupsa (Around 7 hours trek- 2,070m/6,790ft)
    We will begin by descending the Dudh Koshi River and after about 4 hours of hiking, we will reach the large village of Kharikhola and have lunch before continuing to Bupsa. We will hike through forests, cross streams, and pass through picturesque Nepalese villages enjoying locals going about their daily chores amid lush mountains and prayer flags blowing. We will encounter stupas, mani walls, and mules and yaks carrying supplies.
    • Bupsa
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Tea House
    • 2070m
  • Day 05: Trek to Phakding (Around 9 hours trek- 2,610m/ 8,563ft)
    The trail from Bupsa is a scenic hike passing through Kharte and a forested stretch, leading to the top of Kari la where spectacular views of the Himalayan range including Everest, Lhotse, Nupte, Makalu, Thamseruku, Mera Peak, and many other peaks can be seen. The trail then becomes gently flat, winding through a mossy forest, and joins back onto the Dudh Koshi River valley with amazing views.
    • Phakding
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Tea House
    • 2610m
  • Day 06: Trek to Namche Bazaar. (Around 7 hours- 3,440m/ 11,286 ft)
    The trail from Lukla and the Everest base camp trail from Phaplu meets near Cheplung village. Trekkers will likely encounter many other trekkers, guides, porters, and mules during the walk. After breakfast, the trail continues along the Dudh Koshi River, crossing suspension bridges adorned with prayer flags. The trail passes through Sagamartha National Park at Monjo before a steep climb up to Namche Bazaar, a vibrant town on the Everest Base Camp trail.
    • Namche Bazaar
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Tea House
    • 3440m
  • Day 07: Acclimatize day in Namche Bazaar.
    As per the rule of acclimatization, we must walk to a higher altitude and sleep at a lower altitude. So, we will hike to Everest View point to see views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. The rest of the day is spent relaxing in the town of Namche Bazaar, the largest village on the way to Everest Base Camp, with various shops and restaurants. You can shop around for any things you might have forgotten to include in your pack.
    • Namche Bazaar
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Tea House
    • 3860m
  • Day 08: Trek to Tengboche. (Around 6 hours trek- 3,860m/ 12,661 ft)
    From Namche Bazaar, we trek to Tengboche via Phunki Thenga. The climb to Tengboche is a bit difficult but we will enjoy the beautiful pine forest, amazing views of the deep and lush valleys below, and the snow-covered mountains. The route takes us through the spiritual center of the Khumbu region. We will visit the famous monastery there and spend the night in the spiritual ambiance of Tengboche.
    • Tengboche
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Tea House
    • 3860m
  • Day 09: Trek to Dingboche. (Around 6 hours trek- 4,410m/ 14,469 ft.)
    Today will be a trek through yak pasture lands, downhill through refreshing trees, and across a wooden bridge to the village of Pangboche. Along the way, you will enjoy views of Ama Dablam and Everest. The trek ends at the quaint village of Dingboche. As there is a possibility of getting altitude sickness at this altitude, keep yourself hydrated and warm to prevent probable sickness.
    • Dingboche
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Tea House
    • 4410m
  • Day 10: Trek to Lobuche. (Around 6 hours trek- 4,910m/ 16,109 ft.)
    Our trek starts with a short climb out of the village of Dingboche and onto an undulating plateau. You will be amazed by the snow-covered peaks as you walk on boulder-strewn land. After lunch, you will begin a long ascent along a zig-zag path to the Thukla pass, where there is a memorial park for those who lost their lives on Everest expeditions. Then, you will continue to Lobuche.
    • Lobuche
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Tea House
    • 4910m
  • Day 11: Trek to Gorakshep and hike to Everest base camp (Around 8 hours- 5,364m/ 17,594 ft.)
    Today, you will hike for 3 hours to Gorekshep from Lobuche, passing through glacial moraine and rocky terrain with beautiful views of Mt. Nuptse, Lhotse, and Everest. After lunch, you will hike for 2 more hours to reach the colorful and prayer flag-lined natural amphitheater of Everest Base Camp, with views of surrounding mountains but not of Everest itself. You may see a sunset over the mountains if the weather permits.
    • Gorekshep
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Tea House
    • 5160m
  • Day 12: Hike to Kalapatther and trek back to Pheriche. (Around 7 hours- 4,240m/ 13,980 ft.)
    Today, you will climb to the famous viewpoint of Kalapatthar, leaving early from Gorekshep to reach the summit at sunrise. The views from the summit are indescribable, with 360-degree views of the Himalayan giants including Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Pumori, and Ama Dablam in the morning light. After enjoying the views, you will descend back to Gorekshep for breakfast before hurrying back to Pheriche.
    • Pheriche
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Tea House
    • 4240m
  • Day 13: Trek to Namche. (Around 8 hours- 3,440m/ 11,286 ft.)
    The trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar includes a downhill journey through a dry valley to Pangboche village. Crossing a bridge, and ascending through pine and juniper forests, we will reach the beautiful village of Tengboche. The trail descends to the Dudhkoshi River and leads us to Kyanjuma. From here we traverse back around the ridge and drop down into Namche Bazaar for a hot shower and good sleep.
    • Namche Bazaar
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Tea House
    • 3440m
  • Day 14: Trek to Lukla (Around 7 hours- 2,840m/ 9,318 ft.)
    After breakfast, we will set off on our trail down Namche Hill. We cross Hillary Bridge and walk the long stretch up and down all the way back. We exit the Sagarmatha National Park and walk past Monjo and Phakding before starting the last uphill section into Lukla where we will celebrate our successful trek from Phaplu to Everest Base Camp and back
    • Lukla
    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
    • Tea House
    • 2840m
  • Day 15: Fly to Manthali/Kathmandu from Lukla.
    After having breakfast in the morning, we'll fly back to Kathmandu and head straight to the hotel for a well-deserved shower. We'll spend the day lounging, shopping for souvenirs, and sipping on drinks. Then, in the evening, we'll be exploring a fancy cultural restaurant in Kathmandu for a goodbye feast on behalf of Breeze Adventure Treks
    • Kathmandu
    • Breakfast
    • Hotel Sapana Garden/ Thamel Park
    • 1400m
  • Day 16: Final Departure.
    Today marks the final chapter of your epic Everest Base Camp trek from Phaplu and you are saying goodbye to the stunning Himalayan nation of Nepal, taking with you a lifetime of memories. A representative from Breeze Adventure will be dropping you off at the airport 3 hours before your flight. Go ahead and share your travel tales with your circles and we'll see you soon for another trek in Nepal, Bhutan, or Tibet!

Cost Details

Cost Includes

  • Transportation to and from Tribhuvan Airport.
  • Two-night hotel in Kathmandu
  • All needed transportation for the trek, including flights to and from Lukla.
  • Government-authorized experienced guide.
  • 3 meals a day and accommodations during the trek.
  • Well-experienced Guide ( from Kathmandu) and Porter ( at Lukla).
  • Insurance, food, accommodation, and wage for guide and porter.
  • Equipments:-sleeping bag, down jacket.
  • First Aid Kit
  • Breeze Adventure logo Trekking T-shirt ( 1 piece)
  • Service charges and government taxes
  • Sagarmatha National Park entry fee

Cost Excludes:

  • Tips for guide
  • Personal Insurance
  • International Flight