10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Trekking to Everest Base Camp

Trekking to Everest Base Camp is one of the most iconic adventures in the world. The journey to the foot of the highest mountain on Earth takes you through Sherpa villages, suspension bridges draped in prayer flags, deep valleys, and awe-inspiring alpine landscapes. It’s a dream trek for many, and while the experience is absolutely unforgettable, there are a few things I wish I had known before I took my first steps on the trail.

No matter how many guidebooks or blogs you read, some lessons only become clear when you’re actually there, adjusting to the thin air or digging through your pack for a pair of gloves you didn’t think you’d need in May. In this blog, I’ll share ten insights that I believe every future EBC trekker should know—wisdom earned from the trail, and lessons that can help make your own journey safer, smoother, and far more enjoyable.

Timing Matters More Than You Think

When it comes to trekking to Everest Base Camp, timing isn’t just about convenience—it shapes your entire experience. The most favorable months are March to May in spring and late September to November in autumn. During these seasons, the skies are clearer, the views are spectacular, and the weather is relatively stable.

I trekked in early March thinking it would be quiet and manageable, but I was caught off guard by lingering snow and freezing temperatures, especially in places like Gorakshep and Lobuche. If I had waited just a couple more weeks, the trail conditions would have been easier to navigate. On the flip side, trekking during peak October may offer perfect weather, but it also means crowded teahouses and packed trails. Choose your window wisely—it makes a world of difference.

Altitude is Real—Don’t Underestimate It

No matter how fit you are, altitude can surprise you. I had trained hard for this trek, yet found myself short of breath and battling headaches at over 4,000 meters. The Everest region climbs gradually, but not gently. Altitude sickness (AMS) can hit anyone, regardless of age or fitness level.

That’s why acclimatization days in places like Namche Bazaar and Dingboche aren’t optional—they’re essential. Take those rest days seriously. Hike high, sleep low, hydrate constantly, and most importantly, listen to your body. I saw more than one trekker turn back because they ignored the early signs. Trust me, your summit photo at Base Camp won’t matter if you don’t feel well enough to enjoy it.

Pack for All Seasons, Not Just One

I expected chilly nights, but I wasn’t prepared for snow flurries in April or hot afternoons under the sun at lower elevations. The weather in the Everest region is unpredictable and can change within minutes. A sunny morning in Tengboche can quickly turn into a windy, freezing afternoon in Lobuche.

Layers are everything. A moisture-wicking base layer, warm mid-layer, and waterproof outer layer are musts. I wish I had also packed a lighter pair of gloves and an extra buff. Don’t forget sun protection either—UV rays at altitude are intense. Being prepared for all kinds of weather makes the trek far more comfortable and safe.

Eating Right and Drinking Safe is Crucial

On the trail, food is fuel. And not just any fuel—quality, sustaining meals are critical. I learned quickly that skipping meals or not eating enough can leave you drained on uphill climbs. Thankfully, the teahouses along the route serve a hearty selection of meals, with dal bhat being the gold standard for energy and nutrition.

But what caught me off guard was the water situation. Bottled water is expensive and environmentally unfriendly at high altitudes. The better option is to purify tap or stream water using purification tablets or a filtration bottle. I didn’t bring any on my first day and had to rely on boiled water at teahouses until I found tablets in Namche. Now I know: eat well, drink plenty, and always treat your water.

Yes, You Can Trek Solo (But Know What You’re Doing)

Unlike certain restricted areas like the Manaslu Circuit Trek, where solo trekking is prohibited without a guide, the Everest region allows solo trekkers. This flexibility makes EBC a top choice for independent adventurers. I went solo, and while I loved the freedom, there were moments where I wished I had someone to consult, especially during sudden snowfall near Gorakshep.

If you’re going solo, be extra cautious. Stay informed about the weather, use a GPS or trail app, and inform someone of your itinerary. Most importantly, connect with fellow trekkers along the way—there’s always someone to walk with or share a meal in the teahouse dining hall. The trail is well-marked, but it still demands good judgment and preparation.

Cash is King in the Khumbu

ATMs are virtually non-existent after Namche Bazaar, and digital payments are not an option in the villages along the trail. I underestimated how much cash I’d need and found myself rationing money in the last few days, skipping extra snacks and struggling to cover Wi-Fi and charging costs.

Carry enough Nepali rupees for your entire trek—including meals, snacks, accommodations, hot showers, Wi-Fi, and emergency needs. If you think you’ve brought enough, bring a little more. Prices increase as you ascend, so budgeting for about USD 25–30 per day is a safe estimate, more if you want extra comforts.

Take It Slow—Physically and Mentally

Rushing on the Everest Base Camp trek is a recipe for disaster. The trail isn’t a race. The higher you go, the slower you should walk—not only to acclimatize, but to fully absorb the experience. I saw people speed ahead early in the day only to feel sick or too exhausted to enjoy the views later.

Go slow, take deep breaths, and don’t be shy about resting. Mentally, patience is just as important. Delays are common, whether due to flight cancellations in Lukla or unexpected snow. Embrace the pace of the mountains, and you’ll enjoy the journey far more than if you’re constantly chasing the next stop.

Train—But Know the Real Test is Endurance

Before my trek, I trained on stairs and did regular cardio sessions, thinking I was fully prepared. And while fitness does help, what really matters is endurance and mindset. You’ll be walking for up to 6–8 hours daily, for nearly two weeks. The trail isn’t technically difficult, but the sustained physical effort in a low-oxygen environment can be draining.

Train for multi-day hiking, not just gym workouts. And prepare mentally for long days, basic facilities, and the emotional ups and downs that come with trekking at high altitude. Endurance, not intensity, is the key to making it to Base Camp and back.

Expect the Unexpected—and Stay Flexible

One of the biggest lessons I learned on the EBC trek is to let go of control. Weather delays, altitude adjustments, illness, lost gear—it happens. I had planned every day of my itinerary meticulously, but by the fourth day, I was already shifting things around.

Being flexible and maintaining a positive attitude is the best mindset to bring to the mountains. A snowstorm near Dingboche made me pause for a day, but that unexpected stop gave me time to rest and connect with other trekkers. The journey never goes exactly as planned, but that’s part of its beauty.

The Experience Is More Than Just Reaching Base Camp

Of course, standing at Everest Base Camp, with colorful prayer flags fluttering and the Khumbu Icefall in view, is an incredible moment. But looking back, it wasn’t just about that final destination—it was the entire journey that changed me.

From the warm hospitality in Namche Bazaar, to the spiritual peace in Tengboche Monastery, and the friendships forged in the cold evenings of Lobuche, every part of the trek contributed to the experience. Don’t rush just to check off a bucket list item. The trail itself offers moments that will stay with you far longer than any summit photo.

Final Thoughts: Trek with Intention, Return Transformed

Trekking to Everest Base Camp is more than just a physical challenge—it’s a personal journey. You’ll learn patience, humility, and respect for nature. You’ll discover your limits and realize they’re farther than you thought. And you’ll return home with stories, friendships, and a newfound appreciation for the simple joys of walking through the mountains.

So, if you’re planning your first EBC trek, take these lessons to heart. They’ll prepare you for the path ahead and make your experience that much more rewarding. Everest may be the goal, but the journey is what truly stays with you.