Summary of the EBC Trek Experience
- Starting and Ending Elevations: The trek begins at an elevation of 2,860 m (9,400 ft) and ends at 2,800 m (9,200 ft).
- Day 1 Overview: A relatively easy and beautiful start to the trek with scenic views and manageable distances.
- Day 2 Insights: Closer encounters with iconic peaks while gradually gaining elevation.
- Staying in Namche Bazaar: The vibrant village that serves as a hub for Everest trekkers.
- Starting elevation: 2,860 m (9,400 ft)
- Ending elevation: 2,800 m (9,200 ft)
- Elevation gain: -60 m (-200 ft)
- Distance covered: 9 km (5.6 mi)
- Time hiked: 5h 0m
After the commotion in Kathmandu city, and the epically perilous flight to Lukla, the first day of EBC trekking in Nepal was pretty anticlimactic. This was a huge relief. Although we lost some elevation overall, there are still numerous hills to climb before heading down into Benkar.
We enjoyed breakfast in Lukla, and then followed a (mostly easy) up-and-down trail winding through the valleys, grabbed lunch in Phakding, and finally stopped for the night in Benkar.
I say anticlimactic, but the sights and scenes for this day were still astonishing. The hike takes you through valleys and suspension bridges hanging over streams of water so turquoise that it almost seems unreal.
The weather at this altitude is nearly perfect, enhancing the enjoyment of the journey. Moreover, you can start to see the majestic snow-covered mountains waiting for you in the distance.
Many hikers (perhaps most) decide to stay in Phakding for the first night rather than Benkar; however, I believe Benkar may be a better option. The hike from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (the next stop on day 2) is a lengthy trek, and Benkar is closer to Namche.
It’s advisable to approach it this way (in my opinion), as you cover more distance on the first day, allowing you to split it up and create a smoother, more manageable experience overall.
The elevations for Benkar and Phakding are roughly equivalent (2,800 m), so you won’t risk altitude sickness by choosing this route.
EBC Trek – Day 1
- Starting elevation: 2,800 m (9,200 ft)
- Ending elevation: 3,440 m (11,300 ft)
- Elevation gain: 640 m (2,100 ft)
- Distance covered: 5 km (3 mi)
- Time hiked: 4h 45m
The visuals of the EBC Trek on day 2 were reminiscent of day 1, showcasing more suspension bridge crossings, turquoise rivers, and striking white peaks in the background. A few of these bridges are memorable, and once you cross a couple, they transform from daunting to just plain fun.
On day 2, you also spend more time climbing uphill, which can be physically demanding, particularly as you begin to feel the effects of altitude more significantly.
One of the trekkers in Namche at our lodge was suffering altitude sickness, but most of us seemed to manage well throughout the day.
The main distinction on day 2 is getting closer to the peaks, culminating in an epic view of Kongde Ri peak soaring above the village of Namche Bazaar.
This view is incredible, and the best aspect is that you get to experience it two days in a row.
I felt slightly lightheaded by the time I reached Namche, but overall, I felt ready to continue the adventure.
The lodge in Namche (Hotel Sherpa Village & Restaurant) was significantly better than the one in Benkar (Hotel Waterfall), contributing to a more positive experience.
In Namche Bazaar, I was pleased to find numerous restaurants, shops, and varied accommodations. This vibrant village serves as a central point for all treks to EBC and beyond.
While the lodges are still unheated, they are quite comfortable. Happy camper here.
EBC Trek – Summary of Days
EBC Trek offers an extraordinary experience through breathtaking landscapes, with each day providing unique challenges and stunning vistas that encourage exploration.
