Halfway to Everest Base Camp Trek - Trekking
Trip Highlights
- Outstanding sighting of the Everest peak from the Everest View Hotel (13000 feet).
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Golden-hour prayer inside the Tengboche Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries of the Khumbu region.
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A chance to explore Namche and its bakeries, bars, and beautifully decorated settlement.
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Crossing the suspension bridges that make a thrill out of this trek.
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A scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and then from Lukla to Kathmandu.
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Experience walking past rhododendron and oak forests beside the free-flowing blue-water river.
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Real-time interaction with the traditional Sherpa and Gurung people and a peek into their lifestyle, culture, and tradition.
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One of the best trekking adventures for anyone who wants to watch Everest from the closest range and wander in the Sagarmatha National Park.
Trip Overview
Are you an adventure lover looking for a taste of Everest without the lung-busting, frostbite-risking commitment of the classic high-altitude routes? Well, if that's the case, the Halfway to Everest Base Camp Trek sits as a perfect trekking option for you. It’s designed for travellers who crave Himalayan drama, Sherpa culture, and tradition, while also exploring around the Sagarmatha National Park.
The halfway to Everest Base Camp Trekking journey begins with a type of scenic entrance that only Nepal can deliver. We go to Lukla from Kathmandu in a scenic 30-minute flight. Lukla, seated at an altitude of 2860 meters, is the home to the world-famous airstrip perched between ridgelines. From Lukla, we begin the walk on the trail, ascending through beautifully settled Sherpa villages, including Phakding, Namche Bazaar, and Tengboche, before reaching Manjo and the Everest View Hotel. The entire trail eases you in with gentle ascents, pine forests, hanging bridges draped in prayer flags, and river crossings that remind you why the Himalayas are one of Earth’s greatest playgrounds.
Thinking about what the best part of this adventurous trek is? Well, let us tell you that you enjoy all of this without pushing into extreme altitude. No 5,500-metre summit slogs, no oxygen worries, no medical briefings about frostbitemedical briefings about frostbite, just a quick trek ideal for new-trekkers, photographers, families, time-pressed travellers, and anyone who wants to experience the Khumbu’s magic without committing to an expedition-level challenge.
Permits Required
To go for the halfway to EBC Trek, the trekkers need to obtain a couple of permits and a Trekkers' Information Management System Card. The two permits needed are:
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Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
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Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit
Both these permits and the TIMS card are meant for the safety and well-being of the trekkers, as the concerned authority can keep track of how many people have entered certain areas. After you book the package and make an advance payment, Mercy Holidays' representative will arrange these permits and passes for you.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)
The halfway to Everest Base Camp trek package begins as you land in the Tribhuwan International Airport (Kathmandu). The moment you exit the airport, the city greets you with warm air, vibrant colours, and the buzz of travellers preparing for your mountain journeys. Our local representatives will be waiting to welcome you and guide you through the winding streets to the hotel, where you can finally relax and take in the atmosphere of Nepal’s capital.
In the evening, the Mercy Holidays team invites you for a welcome dinner, where you get served with authentic Nepali cuisine. Besides, this is also when you meet your guides who brief you about the entire trip. That's it, now you can spend your first night in Kathmandu before advancing towards the Khumbu region.
Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860 m) & Trek to Phakding (2,610 m)
Day 3: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
Day 5: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,867 m)
Day 6: Trek from Tengboche to Manjo (2,835 m)
Day 7: Trek from Manjo to Lukla (2,860 m)
Day 8: Fly back to Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Day 9: Kathmandu Valley Exploration & Shopping
Day 10: Final Departure
Route Map
Include/Exclude
Cost Includes
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Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu by private vehicle
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3 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu (twin-sharing, 3–5★ hotels)
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Round-trip scenic flights between Kathmandu and Lukla (or Ramechhap and Lukla, depending on availability) with shared or private ground transfers.
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Welcome and farewell dinners before and after the trek
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All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
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Teahouse accommodation during the trek (twin-sharing rooms)
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1 licensed, friendly English-speaking trekking guide
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1 assistant guide provided for every 4 clients
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Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers, carrying up to 15 kg)
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Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and TIMS card
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Trekking map, duffel bag, and trek completion certificate
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Comprehensive first aid kit
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All government taxes and official service charges
Cost Excludes
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International flights to and from Kathmandu.
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Nepal visa fees and personal travel insurance.
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Personal expenses like drinks, snacks, or hot showers.
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Tips for guides, porters, and drivers.
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Personal trekking gear and equipment.
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Meals in Kathmandu, except breakfast.
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Optional activities like extra sightseeing or mountain flights.
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Costs from flight delays or itinerary changes.
Gallery
Essential Info
Best Season for the Halfway to Everest Base Camp Trek
The Halfway to Everest Base Camp Trek is best done during the seasons that offer clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and stable mountain weather. While Khumbu can be trekked year-round, spring and autumn stand out for their visibility, trail conditions, and overall trekking comfort. Also, these seasons offer the trekkers the best chance to enjoy sweeping Himalayan panoramas without battling harsh cold, heavy rain, or slippery trails.
Ideal Trekking Seasons
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Spring (March to May): Blooming rhododendrons, warmer days, long-distance visibility.
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Autumn (September to November): Crystal-clear skies, stable weather, iconic views of Everest and Ama Dablam.
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Winter (December to February): Crisp air and quiet trails; colder temperatures and occasional snow.
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Monsoon (June to August): Lush greenery and fewer crowds; clouds, rain, and reduced visibility.
Halfway to Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty Level
The Halfway to Everest Base Camp Trek is designed to be accessible, making it a great choice for beginners, families, and travellers who want the Everest experience without tackling extreme altitudes.
Besides, the terrain also includes steady ascents, forested paths, and suspension bridges, but nothing technical or overly strenuous. With the highest point at 3,867 metres, the trek stays well below the altitude zone where symptoms typically become challenging, allowing you to enjoy the journey comfortably and confidently.
Breakdown of Difficulty
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Overall Grade: The trek is moderate and perfectly accessible for beginners and family trekkers.
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Daily Walking Duration: The average walking duration will be 4 to 7 hours every day.
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Highest Altitude: Tengboche is the highest altitude of this trekking route, which sits at an altitude of 3867 meters.
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Fitness Requirement: Make sure that you have basic fitness. However, prior trekking experience is not mandatory.
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Trail Condition: Mix of gentle climbs, forest paths, stone steps, and suspension bridges.
Food and Accommodation
Food
Trekkers can expect hearty and comforting food tailored to keep trekkers energised at altitude. Also, almost all of the tea houses throughout the trekking trail prepare simple yet flavourful dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and the menus are surprisingly diverse for such remote terrain. So, whether you prefer traditional Nepali meals or familiar international options, there’s always something warm and satisfying waiting at the end of each trekking day.
Here's what you can expect:
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Dal Bhat: The classic trekker’s favourite; unlimited refills and packed with energy.
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Soups & Noodles: Sherpa stew, garlic soup, thukpa, and ramen-style bowls.
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Carb-Friendly Meals: Fried rice, pasta, potatoes, pancakes, toast.
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Snacks: Momos, chapati, biscuits, porridge, and chocolate bars.
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Hot Drinks: Tea, hot lemon, ginger honey, cocoa, and instant coffee.
Accommodation
The Mercy Holidays team ensures to arrange the best accommodation throughout the halfway to Everest Base Camp. Mostly, we can expect traditional Nepali teahouses offering cozy rooms, friendly service, and the warm communal atmosphere trekkers love. Even though the rooms are simple, we ensure that they remain clean, comfortable, and perfectly suited to the adventure. So, after a tiring and adventurous walk on the day, you will certainly be in for a warm bed, hearty meals, and a relaxed space.
Throughout the trail, the tea houses provide twin-share wooden rooms with warm blankets and facilities like shared bathrooms. Also, expect heated communal dining rooms for meals and relaxation. Furthermore, all the tea houses also provide facilities like WiFi, electricity, and hot water for showers, but let us tell you that you might have to pay extra at the higher altitudes.
How to Prepare for the Everest Base Camp Halfway Trek
Preparing for the Halfway to Everest Base Camp Trek is simpler than many travellers expect. As the route stays at moderate altitudes and follows well-established trails, your focus should be on building steady stamina rather than intense athletic fitness. Therefore, we recommend the trekkers to go for a mix of light training, the right gear, and a little mental readiness goes a long way toward making the journey comfortable, enjoyable, and deeply rewarding.
Preparation Essentials
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Start Light Training: Walk, jog, cycle, or climb stairs 3-4 times a week for at least a month.
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Add Day Hikes: Try weekend hikes with a light backpack to condition your legs and balance.
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Break in Your Boots: Wear your trekking boots long before the trip to avoid blisters.
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Practice Hydration: Get used to drinking plenty of water during physical activity.
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Check Your Gear: Test layers, backpack fit, walking poles, and rain gear before departure.
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Travel Insurance: Ensure your plan covers trekking and the Lukla flight.
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Mental Prep: Expect early mornings, basic teahouses, and a slower mountain pace.
Packing List
One of the best ways to keep yourself safe and going during any trekking journey is by packing smart and light. The same goes for the Everest Base Camp Halfway Trek, as the route spans forest trails, breezy ridgelines, and cool evenings in the teahouses; your gear should balance warmth, breathability, and practicality.
Here is what you need to pack for the Halfway to Everest Base Camp Trek:
Trekking Clothes
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Sweat-observing base layers (top and bottom)
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Warm mid-layers (fleece or light synthetic jacket)
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Insulated down jacket for cold mornings and evenings
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Waterproof/windproof shell jacket and pants
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Trekking pants (quick-dry)
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Thermal gloves, lightweight gloves, beanie, buff
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Sun hat or cap
Footwear
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Trekking boots with good ankle support
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Merino or synthetic trekking socks (3–4 pairs)
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Lightweight camp shoes or sandals
Gear and Accessories
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Daypack (25–30L) with rain cover
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Trekking poles
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Sunglasses (UV-protected)
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Headlamp with extra batteries
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Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
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Quick-dry towel
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Sleeping liner (optional but handy in colder months)
Personal Items & Electronics
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Sunscreen, lip balm, moisturiser
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Basic first-aid kit (painkillers, blister care, personal meds)
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Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
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Toiletries (biodegradable where possible)
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Power bank
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Camera or phone for photos
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Chargers and travel adapters
Also, remember to carry all your documents (permits, passes etc) along with some extra cash (Nepali Rupees).
Book the Halfway to Everest Base Camp Trek with Mercy Holidays!
Ready to trek halfway to Everest Base Camp? Just sign in to experience the Himalayas like never before with Mercy Holidays! We ensure stunning mountain views, vibrant Sherpa culture, and unforgettable moments without the extreme altitude.
With us, you can expect
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Expert Guides: Feel safe and confident with our experienced trekking team.
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Comfortable Stays: Relax in cozy teahouses after every scenic day.
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All Logistics Handled: Flights, transfers, and meals organised for a hassle-free journey.
Don't wait, get yourself going to book this package with Mercy Holidays right away. If there are any concerns or queries regarding the package or our services, you can simply contact us.
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