How Hard is it to Trek to Everest Base Camp?

Every mountain climber or trekker has dreamed of climbing Mount Everest at least once in their lifetime. In this trek, people learn to stay determined and patient for the duration of the trek as this trek is quite difficult. This trek is always a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. During this Everest Base Camp trek, people experience the beauty of the wonderful landscapes and the serenity of the Buddhist Monasteries. Only a few brave and adventure-loving people can make it to the peak of Everest every year since the Everest Base Camp elevation is over 5000 meters. But there are many people who can easily reach the Everest Base Camp so they can glimpse the beautiful Mount Everest. 

How long does it take to climb Mount Everest?

The first doubt that comes to people’s minds is how long to climb Everest. On average, it takes around two months to complete the trek from Kathmandu to Mount Everest to Kathmandu. But before you begin your trek, you need to keep a few days in hand to get over the jetlag and recover completely with full energy so that you can start your trek properly.

The most famous trek to Everest Base Camp routes is Jiri, Saleri, and Phaplu. These are the most beautiful routes shorter in Everest Base Camp trek distance. But if you are traveling by this route, it may take longer to reach the camp as it will be essential to stop for a few days in the villages at the feet of Lukla. Some alternative paths to reach your destination also make your trek longer and more adventurous. 

After reaching the Base Camp, you will need to adjust to the altitude before you can proceed with the climbing. You will then need to reach other Everest Base Camps before starting your journey to the summit. The maximum amount of time is needed for determining the route and generating the permit for the climber. Then, after all the preparation is made, the final climbing takes around 5 to 7 days. It is the reason why people require patience to climb Everest. 

Climatic Conditions in the Everest Region          

• The most favorable time for trekking to the Everest Base Camp is from March to June, during which the region experiences the spring season. This region attracts a lot of tourists as the temperature in the summer months does not cross 20 degrees in the daytime and drops to as low as -15 degrees at night since the Everest Base Camp altitude is over 5000 meters above sea level. 
• After this comes the monsoon season, which begins in July and continues till the mid of September. This time of the year is not recommended for trekking because, during this time, the roads become very slippery and dangerous. Also, during the monsoon, there is a risk of landslides, making it riskier.
• The autumn season, which starts from mid-September and lasts till November, is also a suitable time for trekking. It is considered a very suitable time because it is during this time that this place is completely bloomed with various wildflowers and rhododendrons. 
• Then comes the winter season, which, again, is not at all a recommended time for Everest Base Camp trek 2022. The time that this season lasts is from November to February. During this time of the year, the temperatures are minus 60 degrees. Also, during this time, mountain climbers may face storms and hurricanes.

What is the Fitness Requirement for being able to trek to Everest Base Camp?

If you have the habit of walking long distances regularly, then the Everest Base Camp hike will not be difficult. Also, if you have the habit of doing aerobic sports like swimming, cycling, athletics, or even if you are a gym goer, it will be easy for you. It would help if you also were habituated to carrying heavy rucksacks, which weigh around 15 kg. If you can walk a long Everest Base Camp trek distance (around 12 km) for some consecutive days, you are also one step ahead towards your trek. 

If you face any doubts regarding your fitness, you should visit your physician and determine your current fitness state as the Everest Base Camp height is not much less. Although there is no upper age limit for this trek, it is still advisable to consult your physician if you have come near the age of 70 or have already crossed it. 

Is the trek to Everest Base camp dangerous?

Sometimes, the trek can prove dangerous if you do not choose a good guide who can provide you with a proper Everest Base Camp trek itinerary that includes proper rest periods, sufficient time for acclimatization, and clean drinking water. When you trek with good company, you will not have to worry about the rope hanging, exposed ridges, etc. 

On your way to Everest Base Camp, one aspect of danger is the yaks. These animals have been known to run into people and injure them very badly. If any trekker faces any problem during the trek, there is a well-connected helicopter service that may be helpful. 

Conclusion

As we can see, the trek to Everest Base Camp 2022 is not as dangerous as people consider it. If you follow a good Sherpa guide and are fit enough to endure the physical and mental stress, you will be good to go for the trek. If you are thinking of a trek to this Base Camp, you can feel free to contact Himalayan Trekker and travel with them at a very reasonable Everest Base Camp trek cost. They provide you with the proper Everest Base Camp trek itinerary. This trek is also not that difficult if all the processes are followed.