Nepal

Nepal is a country almost synonymous with the Himalayas. It is also the country most strongly associated with Mount Everest and its related mountaineering and adventure excursions.

Much of the country is rural, though there are some well-known settlements. The central city is Kathmandu, where most tourist journeys start and end in Nepal. The nation embraces its diversity in religion, with Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam shaping much of Nepal’s buildings and appreciation for the land.

While my Everest Base Camp trek blog covers a lot of what you need to know, I’ve got many other posts about Nepal worth taking a look at. So stick around as I give you the ins and outs of what to expect.

Preparing for Nepal

I can testify first-hand that a trip to Nepal and the Everest Base Station is challenging. The very first thing you should do, therefore, is prepare. 

One of the essential elements of the preparation is a packing list. You’ll not want to get caught out halfway on your journey and realise you’ve forgotten something important. Here’s my Everest Base Camp packing list to help you get started. Use it as a guide and reference for your list, and take note of some of the tips I’ve provided. 

Kathmandu

You’ll reach the Everest Base Camp via Kathmandu, where most incoming flights to Nepal will touch down. This Himalayan City sits at 1400 m above sea level. Plan to spend a couple of days, at least in Kathmandu, before you set off on the next stage of your trek. 

This is for two reasons. One: You should see the place. There are some fascinating places to visit in Kathmandu while you pass the time. Two: you must adequately acclimatise to the conditions and elevation (yes, altitude sickness is a thing). It’s all a part of your physical preparation, which, by the way, is critical if you are planning to have a decent experience. 

I recommend the Dwarika Hotel Kathmandu as a place to stay while you are here. 

Everest Base Camp

On to Everest Base Camp. Read my Everest Base Camp trek itinerary for the best account of what happened in my experience.

One of the questions you might ask is whether trekking to the Everest Base Camp is worth it. My answer will always be an emphatic yes. Of course, it is challenging. But if you prepare well and know what to expect, it can be exceptionally rewarding.

Speaking of expectations, you may come across the concept of tea house trekking while in Nepal. Tea houses are little stops along the journey to Everest, providing the most basic amenities like a place to sleep and some very rustic toilets. 

You should know these Nepal tea house basics before you embark on the voyage. That way, you can buffer the discomfort somewhat. 

Winding Down After Everest

If you complete your Everest Base Camp adventure, I suggest treating yourself to Nepalese luxury afterward. This will help you genuinely appreciate what you’ve been through up to that point. 

The Dhulikhel Resort Dwarika is a spa resort about one hour outside of Kathmandu, and it’s the perfect post-Everest treatment. Book yourself in for a few days to soak, sleep, and replenish those tired and weary limbs, minds, and spirits.