Everest Base Camp Trek Without Flight

Flying to Lukla has always been a challenge due to unpredictable weather, whether departing from Kathmandu or Ramechhap – Manthali airport. Over the years, we’ve observed that if flights go smoothly one way, there’s often an issue on the return. To avoid the risks and uncertainties of flying in small aircraft, we’ve introduced an overland journey to Everest Base Camp—a safer and more immersive trekking experience.

A Classic Trek Without Flight Challenges
The Everest Base Camp Trek without flights offers an incredible adventure that eliminates the need for domestic flights. Instead of flying to Lukla, this itinerary follows a scenic overland drive from Kathmandu to Salleri and further to Kharikhola in a comfortable 4WD jeep. From there, the trek begins gradually through the lesser-explored Solu region, allowing you to experience the traditional Sherpa villages, lush forests, and terraced farmlands before joining the main Everest trail.

Over 18 days, this trek provides an authentic Himalayan journey with ample time for acclimatization, cultural exploration, and breathtaking scenery. You’ll pass through iconic locations like Namche Bazaar, visit the serene Tengboche Monastery, and stand at the legendary Everest Base Camp. The adventure also includes an exhilarating hike to Kala Patthar, offering unparalleled sunrise views of Everest, Nuptse, and Lhotse.

Why Choose the Overland Route?
01.  Avoid the risks of flight cancellations or delays
02. Enjoy a scenic drive through the remote Solu region
03. Experience traditional Sherpa villages and rich cultural heritage
04. Acclimatize better with a gradual ascent to Everest Base Camp
05. Witness breathtaking panoramic views from Kala Patthar

Key Highlights of the Trek:
# Scenic 4WD drive from Kathmandu to Kharikhola, bypassing Lukla’s flight challenges.
# Trek through the beautiful Solu region, a less crowded and culturally rich route.
# Explore Namche Bazaar, the heart of the Everest trekking region.
# Visit Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual hub of the Khumbu.
# Stand at Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and experience the thrill of reaching the foot of the world’s tallest mountain.
# Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) for the best sunrise views of Everest.
# Retrace your steps to Kharikhola and drive back to Kathmandu, completing a well-rounded Himalayan adventure.

This alternative route provides not just an unforgettable trek but a deeper connection with the landscapes, culture, and people of the Everest region. If you’re looking for a safer, more immersive.

Itinerary 

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a welcome dinner and a briefing about the trek.
Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 02: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Explore the cultural heritage sites of Kathmandu and prepare for your trek. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Salleri (2,370m) and Further to Kharikhola (2,040m)
Begin your drive through the beautiful Solu region, with stunning views of hills and mountains. Drive Time: 8-9 hours -Distance: Approx. 270 km – Overnight in Kharikhola.

Day 04: Trek from Kharikhola to Paiya (2,730m)
Start your trek through lush landscapes and small Sherpa villages. Trek Time: 6-7 hours. Distance: Approx. 12 km. Overnight in Paiya.

Day 05: Trek from Paiya to Phakding (2,610m)
Continue trekking, crossing suspension bridges and passing through villages. Trek Time: 5-6 hours. Distance: Approx. 12 km . Overnight in Phakding.

Day 06: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Trek through Sagarmatha National Park, with your first view of Mount Everest. Trek Time: 5-6 hours. Distance: Approx. 7.4 km . Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

Day 07: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
Rest and explore Namche Bazaar, with an optional hike to Everest View Hotel. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

Day 08: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,867m)
Trek through beautiful forests and climb to Tengboche, home to a famous monastery. Trek Time: 5-6 hours. Distance: Approx. 9.2 km. Overnight in Tengboche.

Day 09: Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m)
Climb through villages and enjoy stunning views of Ama Dablam and other peaks. Trek Time: 5-6 hours. Distance: Approx. 11 km. Overnight in Dingboche.

Day 10: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche
Rest in Dingboche or take a hike to Nagarjun Hill for great views. Overnight in Dingboche.

Day 11: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (4,940m)
Walk through the memorial site at Thukla Pass and arrive in Lobuche. Trek Time: 4-5 hours. Distance: Approx. 8 km. Overnight in Lobuche.

Day 12: Trek from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) via Gorak Shep (5,170m)
Head to Gurak Shep and then continue to Everest Base Camp, where you can enjoy the breathtaking atmosphere.
Trek Time: 7-8 hours. Distance: Approx. 15 km (round trip). Overnight in Gorak Shep.

Day 13: Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) and Trek to Pheriche (4,280m)
Climb to Kala Patthar for sunrise views of Everest, then descend to Pheriche. Trek Time: 7-8 hours. Distance: Approx. 12 km. Overnight in Pheriche.

Day 14: Trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Retrace your steps down the valley to Namche Bazaar. Trek Time: 6-7 hours. Distance: Approx. 15 km. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

Day 15: Trek from Namche Bazaar to Kharikhola (2,040m)
Trek down to Kharikhola, passing Phakding and other villages. Trek Time: 7-8 hours. Distance: Approx. 21 km. Overnight in Kharikhola.

Day 16: Drive from Kharikhola to Kathmandu
After breakfast, begin your drive back to Kathmandu, enjoying the scenic landscapes on the way.
Drive Time: 8-9 hours. Overnight in Kathmandu. Day 17: Leisure Day in Kathmandu. Rest and explore Kathmandu at your leisure. You can also go souvenir shopping in Thamel.Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 18: Departure from Kathmandu
Transfer to the airport for your international flight. Depart with memories of your amazing Everest Base Camp trek! Note: Detailed descriptive itinerary is available for the signed up clients.

Cost Includes:
01. Arrival/ departure transfers in Kathmandu
02. 1 full day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu with tour guide
03. Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu as per itinerary
04. All ground transportation (Kathmandu to Kharikhola and return by private 4WD.
05. All trekking permits.
06. Experienced guide and porters, their accident insurance
07. All Meals during the trek.
08. Standard Accommodation in tea houses during the trek.
09. Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.

Cost Exclusions:
01. International flights, Nepal visa 
02. Travel insurance (covering high-altitude trekking).
03. Meals in Kathmandu and monuments fees during sightseeing tour

At Red Reach Himalaya, we don’t just sell treks; we curate unforgettable holiday experiences. Our mission is to provide you and your clients with adventures that will be cherished for a lifetime. Whether it’s an exhilarating trek, a challenging climb, an exploration of heritage sites, a cultural immersion, wildlife encounters, or simple tours and activities, we dedicate our hearts to every detail. We are committed to showcasing the unique beauty and experiences our region has to offer. Discover what our clients have to say about our exceptional services by reading their reviews on TripAdvisor.