Why Everest base camp trek is popular toady?
Why Everest base camp trek is popular today?
Everest base camp at an altitude of 5364 m (17598 feet) above sea level is a campsite located on the Khumbu Glacier in the Himalayas of Nepal. Trekking to EBC is a dream for many adventure enthusiasts because it serves as a starting point for climbers attempting to summit Mount Everest (8848 m) and offers an opportunity to experience the rich Sherpa culture and the incredible landscapes of the Himalayas. Similarly, the welcoming views of the 8000 m mountains of the Khumbu region, dramatic views of the Khumbu icefall and Khumbu Glacier, and its iconic status in the world of trekking and adventure travel allure trekkers from all corners of the globe. Moreover, the Everest base camp trek is incredibly popular for several reasons:
1) UNESCO World Heritage Site Sagarmatha National Park
Sagarmatha National Park covers an area of 124400 hectares is one of the most renowned National Parks located in the Solukhumbu district of eastern Nepal. It is a home to several rare species such as the snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, and red panda.
The park features astonishing landscapes, including deep valleys, rugged terrain, alpine forests, and glacial rivers. The park is also famous for encompassing the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest and a hub for mountaineers from around the world aiming to ascend Mount Everest and other nearby peaks. The park is inhabited by the Sherpa people, allowing you to experience the local Sherpa culture, explore traditional villages and chance to visit monasteries like Tengboche Monastery along the trekking routes.
2) Kalapatthar summit (5643 m)
Kala patthar is renowned for offering best panoramic views of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan peaks, which is 6.2 miles away. It is one of the favorite spot for photographers as it provides a close- up views of Everest’s southeast face, along with other stunning peaks like Lhotse and Nuptse.
Trekkers and mountaineers ascend kalapatthar early in the morning to witness the sunrise over Everest, creating impressive sight. The sight of illuminating the snow- covered peaks and casting its golden glow is truly unforgettable experience.
3) Alternative route to Gokyo Ri and Three high passes
Gokyo Ri is a small peak (5357 m) situated in the Gokyo valley, is a popular trekking destination to experience the beauty of the Everest region without attempting to climb Mount Everest itself. It is a popular vantage point for sunrise view of Mount Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu, among other peaks. This trek provides access to remote and pristine landscapes.
The Everest three pass trekking provides a closer look into the alien terrain, frosty altitude, and endless individual struggle at towering altitudes. In this trek, you will reach Everest base camp, passing through three highest passes in the Khumbu region- Kongma La Pass (5535 m), Cho La Pass (5420 m), and Renjo La Pass (5340 m).
4) Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu icefall
The Khumbu glacier and Khumbu icefall is the most popular route for climbers attempting to conquer Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world. The Khumbu Glacier is one of the largest glaciers in the Himalayas and Khumbi icefall is a highly hazardous and ever – changing section of the Khumbu Glacier.
5) Sherpa villages and stunning view from Everest view hotel
Sherpa villages are settlements located in the Khumbu region of Nepal. Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Pangboche, and Khunde and Khumjung are the most well- known Sherpa villages in the Everest region. Namche Bazaar is the largest Sherpa village in the Khumbu region. It has numerous lodges, shops, and facilities for tourists. Similarly, Tengboche is another charming village, famous for its Buddhist monastery, Tengboche monastery which is one of the oldest in the region and holds great religious and cultural significance.
The Everest view hotel in the village of Syangboche, near Namche Bazaar is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest and other Himalayan peaks. The hotel’s location offers an ideal vantage point for enjoying majestic mountains. It’s a popular stop for trekkers and tourists alike who want to capture the beauty of the Himalayas in a relatively accessible and comfortable setting.