Excellent question — and the answer is, it depends. You can spend between $1,200 and $4,500 per person for an Everest Base Camp trek, depending on how you journey, which services you take, and whether or not you book a budget, mid-range, or high-end package. The following is all cost breakdown information that you'll want to have in your backpack before cinching down your hiking boots.
Everest Base Camp trek — what does it actually cost to be at the foot of Earth's tallest peak?
If this is something that has crossed your thoughts, you are not alone. Thousands of trekkers from all corners of the planet visit Everest Base Camp each year, and knowing the true cost is what separates doing from dreaming.
As someone who has guided treks myself on the Khumbu, I'm all too aware of the sensations that you'll be feeling gazing up at Everest: wind rush, snow crunch, Sherpa-tea warmth, and pride in each step it took for you to get here. In this honest, firsthand 2025 guide, I'll say exactly what you'll pay — and exactly why each and every penny is well worth it, as you create memories that last a lifetime.
👉 Examine the Everest Base Camp Trek Complete Details Here
A number of variables affect the expedition's overall cost. It is not merely a question of trekking days — whether flights or accommodation, everything influences your budget.
Primary cost drivers:
All these categories add up your trekking cost, so we'll go through them all in succession.
Most of the trekking companies in Nepal offer three types of Everest Base Camp trekking packages:
| Package Type | Cost (Per Person) | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $1,200–$1,600 | Guide, basic lodge, permits, meals |
| Standard | $1,700–$2,500 | Guide, porter, domestic flights, mid-range lodge, meals |
| Luxury | $3,000–$4,500 | Luxury lodges, experienced guides, flights, porter, extra services |
Pro Tip: Hike in a group, and you can get better price. Visit this link to view our most recent Everest Base Camp Trek package.
Certain adventures never get measured by where exactly you go — they get measured by what happens along the way. And opinion among experienced trekkers is universal: The cost of the Everest Base Camp trek is minimal when weighed against what memories it provides.
That is why the price is perplexing:
As a person who has visited Base Camp over a dozen times, let me assure you that nobody remembers how much they spent — they just remember they felt alive.
While the Everest Base Camp trek cost varies by package, season also plays a crucial role. By selecting the appropriate window, you might potentially save more money, enjoy safer trails, and enjoy better weather.
Busy period (March–May, September)
Off-peak Periods (December-February, June-August)
Tip: The optimal time for good weather and reasonable prices is early March or late November.
When initially considering visiting the bottom of Mount Everest, all that kept going through my mind was the cost - not the scenery. Would it be affordable enough? Would they overcharge me? Would it be ethically wrong for me to spend this kind of money on a single trip?
When returning from my 14-day journey to Everest Base Camp in the spring, it was well worth each cent spent. Following is a brief breakdown of what cost me and what you should be prepared for as a foreign hiker in 2025:
| Expense Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Roundtrip Flight (Kathmandu–Lukla) | $420 |
| Trekking Permits (Sagamartha National Park + Khumbu Pasang Lhamu) | $46 |
| Licensed Guide & Porter (Shared with 1 other trekker) | $480 |
| Tea House Accommodation + Meals | $350 |
| Hot Showers, Wi-Fi, Phone Charging | $90 |
| Travel Insurance (with helicopter evacuation cover) | $140 |
| Extra snacks, tips, souvenirs | $70 |
| Total | $1,588 |
I went with a locally-based trekking company which had a good reputation rather than large foreign companies. It allowed me a personalized experience and reasonable costs.
Would I pay it again? Oh, absolutely. The first light on Everest from Kala Patthar and the hospitality of Sherpa people are something I will always treasure. Honestly, after a couple of days on the trail, cost is not something that enters your mind, and all you think of is getting interesting stories.
Yes, it is possible to smartly lower the cost of going to Everest Base Camp. However, you should never risk your gear or your guide's knowledge.
Money-saving tips:
Even with careful planning, vacations can have unexpected expenses. People typically don't plan for the following expenses on the trek:
Remember: High altitude means high prices. As you go up, the price of water and necessities can triple.
Beyond numbers and receipts, the Everest Base Camp trek provides unforgettable experiences:
In order to trek Everest Base Camp, two permits are required:
You can purchase them in Kathmandu or Monjo, where the park entrance is located. Retain your receipts during trekking.
You can get to Lukla the fastest by flying from Kathmandu. The cost in 2025 for a one-way ticket is around $220 to $230 for a person. A round-trip ticket would cost between $440 to $460 USD.
Book in advance during peak trekking seasons (March to May and September to November) as fares increase and seats get booked quickly.
Today, flights tend to depart from Ramechhap Airport. It is a 4-hour drive from Kathmandu as Tribhuvan International Airport is congested.
You will sleep in tea houses on the trek — pleasant local establishments that offer basic services.
Housing costs:
Food expenses:
The prices rise as you ascend. Taking a water bottle costing $1 in Namche would cost between $3 and $5 in Gorak Shep.
Let's examine our plan details here.
🔗 Everest Base Camp Trek Details
Employing knowledgeable professionals renders your journey secure and enhances your trekking experience. IN 2025:
Book porters and guides from a registered trekking agency like Shikhar Adventure. This provides them with legal coverage and pay that is reasonable. Read here why hiring a guide is crucial in this Everest Base Camp Difficulty guide.
Altitude sickness, accidents, and flight delays are all risks of trekking at high elevations. Insurance is very important.
An emergency chopper rescue up to 6,000 meters and medical care will cost between $120 and $180 USD.
Tip: Make sure your insurance covers treks at high altitudes.
If you're in need of trekking gear, Kathmandu boasts several reputable rental shops to cater to your needs.
Renting cost:
It is wise to purchase necessary items such as good boots and a good backpack if you hike frequently.
Learn why Everest Base Camp is a journey so well worth taking here.
🔗 Everest Base Camp Trek: A complete Guide
Below is what you may be charged for an Everest Base Camp trek in 2025 for planning purposes. Keep in mind, though, that package rate typically includes flights from Kathmandu to Lukla and return, trekking permits, accommodations, meals, a guide, and porter service.
| Expense Category | Budget Trek | Standard Trek | Luxury Trek |
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (incl. Flights & Permits) | $1,200 | $1,800 | $3,500 |
| Insurance (Recommended) | $120 | $120 | $180 |
| Personal Expenses (Wi-Fi, showers, snacks, tips, souvenirs) | $100 | $150 | $300 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $1,420 | $2,070 | $3,980 |
Note: These are all average estimates for 2025. Actual costs are subject to vary by season, group size, additional services, and how much is customized. Always verify what's covered when booking.
There are a lot of Everest Base Camp treks available, so it is not always easy to choose among them. As a traveler, you tend to choose whatever is most important for you — adventure, budget, comfort, or your schedule.
Here's how to decide:
Budget Packages ($1200–$1600): Ideal for solo travelers and backpackers participating in group tours. You'll be staying in simple tea houses, dining on local cuisine, and sharing a guide with fellow travelers.
Standard Packages ($1600-$2200): This is a great option with experienced guides, available private rooms, better cuisine, and additional assistance for altitude sickness.
Luxury Packages ($3000+): Ideal for those who enjoy good lodges with en suite bathrooms, Wi-Fi, heating, and a helicopter return from Base Camp.
Tip: Ensure your package includes a licensed guide and trekking permits, as well as domestic flights. These expenses are usually not reflected in bargain packages.
If you are not sure which is best for you, have a look at our Complete Guide to Everest Base Camp Trek — it details what is covered in each kind of trek.
Regardless of what you choose, there is no denying that memories will be precious.
Everyone who visits Everest Base Camp shares something in common: it's not a hike, it's a journey of self-discovery. You discover things about yourself on this adventure that, until now, you didn't know existed.
Some of the emotional moments you'll treasure forever:
Planning in advance is a great idea before you complete your trip — particularly for your finances and what lies ahead.
Take a look in your package:
Additional shower, Wi-Fi, snack, and tip expenses can cost between $200 and $300 or more. Be sure to request a definitive breakdown of what is included.
Ensure your insurance covers high altitude.
Many basic travel insurances exclude trekking above 4000m. Make sure yours includes medical evacuation by helicopter up to 6000m — it's expensive otherwise.
Good insurance can cost $100–$150 for a two-week policy, but it's non-negotiable.
Shape up ahead of your departure.
The hike is not technically difficult, but it takes effort. Walking 5–7 hours a day, ascending steep paths, and handling thin air make it challenging. Start doing cardio and hill training a few months prior to the hike to make it safer and more enjoyable.
If you compare this Everest Base Camp trip to other journeys worldwide, here is what holds true: Few expeditions allow you such great views, opportunities to experience other cultures, and accomplishments as a person as this one does.
You are not only paying for lodging and meals. You are investing in:
Is the Everest Base Camp trek expensive?
It is not too pricey for a foreign trip. It would cost between $1,200 and $4,500 depending on trek type.
Q: Is it possible to hike to Everest Base Camp on a budget?
A: Yes! Go for basic tea houses, have less comfort, and share guide and porter costs.
Q: Is a guide required for EBC trek?
A: A guide is not required, but it is highly recommended for your safety, assistance in navigation, and cultural learning.
Q: How much should I tip to porters and guides?
A: Leave a tip of 10% of the cost of a trek or $100–$150 for each person; divide it between your porter and guide.
Q: Are domestic flights included in trekking package costs?
A: For standard and luxury packages, yes — in general. Always verify with your agency.
Q: When should I reserve my trek?
A: Book at least 2–3 months in advance during peak season months (March–May, September–November).
Beyond a shadow of a doubt — every penny is well spent for the privilege of having a place at the foot of Earth's highest peak. From flight-from-Lukla thrill, Sherpa welcome, and everything in between, it is an experience of a lifetime.
Having organized dozens of treks here, personally, I can assure that memories overshadow the cost by a long way.
Read our Verdict on whether or not Everest Base Camp Trek is worth it.
Ready for your Everest dreams? Contact us for your customized Everest Base Camp Trek package today.
The cost of the Everest Base Camp trek in 2025 ranges from $1,200 to $4,500, based on package categories, services, and travel options. Permits, flights, guides, lodging, and insurance are the most expensive items. Budget, standard, and luxury treks are available for overall trekking interests.
