Everest Base Camp (5,364 m)

Everest base camp, the foundation of the highest peak in the world at an altitude of 8,848 meters above the sea level, Everest is not just a mountain, it is much more like a portrayal of human fortitude, the solemnity of nature with the majesty of cultural significance.

Everest Base Camp is a relevant mounting stage and is the dream destination of any trek enthusiast. EBC serves as the nexus of Everest trip that beholds geographical and cultural assessment. This post elucidates the relevance of Everest Base Camp, illuminating its pivotal position, historical relevance in ascending and climbing, ecological essence, and such great impact on local mountain dwellers.

EBC has vast geographical, cultural and ecological essence other than being a prop base for ascending efforts of Mount Everest.

Geographical relevance

Everest Base Camp Location

• Everest Base Camp serves as the nexus of Everest trip being situated at an altitude of 5,364 meters above the sea level. EBC locates on the southern edge of the Everest. People who wish for Everest Summit usually prepare themselves and choose to primarily acclimatize in the Everest Base Camp.
• EBC is situated just below an icefall side of famous Khumbu glacier. Climbers initiate to ascend the mountain through this point, so it demands practical and applied skills to climb. To reach Camp I at 6,065 meters, it is the technical necessity to pass through Khumbu Icefall.
• Everyone approaching towards EBC should reach Lukla, which is located at an altitude of 2860 meters.

Views and serenity

• We can get the sublime view of Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world at 8,848 meters. The camp serves as the viewpoint to great snow capped mountains Cho Oyu, Nuptse, Pumori, Lingtren, Khumbutse etc.
• On the way to EBC, you will get immersed in the awe-inspiring lush rhododendron forests and dense magnolia forests.
• On the way to EBC, you will get immersed in the awe-inspiring Gokyo lake, Lobuche, Gorakshep etc.

Availability of water and flat terrain

• Water (for drinking and cooking) is available in EBC area, originated from the melting of Khumbu glacier.
• Despite Everest having oppressive conditions, in order to settle down the tents on the camping sites, relatively flat grounds are accessible.

North and South Base Camps

South Base Camp

South Base Camp is located in Nepal. It is used by climbers who wish to ascend Everest taking the south-east ridge. South Base Camp is most popular than the northern one. The Altitude of EBC, south camp is 5,364 meters above the sea level.

It takes almost 10 – 14 days of trek from Lukla to reach EBC. Good Sherpa guides accessible and teahouses on the way. Established evacuation and rescue system.

North Base Camp

North Base Camp is located in Tibet / China. It is generally used by climbers who wish to ascend Everest through the north ridge. North Base Camp is less popular than the southern one. The Altitude of EBC, north camp is 5,150 meters above the sea level. It is approachable by road from Tingri.

Kathmandu – Ramechhap – Lukla – EBC

Before one and a half year, the Lukla flights flew from Tribhuvan International Airport domestic terminals, Kathmandu. The main reason for making Ramechhap airport being an alternative is the Airport Maintenance and heavy traffic in Kathmandu. Ramechhap airport in Manthali, Ramechhap is situated at 474 m above the sea level which takes about 4 or 4 and a half hours to reach via private vehicle and even more via bus from Kathmandu.

Lukla, being a gateway to Mount Everest and EBC many trekkers and climbers approaching Everest Base Camp (EBC) and even Mt. Everest will help in surge or escalation of Ramechhap’s business mobility, social popularity and progressive economic transition.

EBC Location illuminates Everest Heritage

• Lies in UNESCO listed world heritage site, Sagarmatha National Park.
• EBC surpasses historic and cultural legacy of Everest like various monasteries, monuments, Sherpa traditions.
• EBC and surround areas are home to rare / endangered species like Snow Leopards, Red Pandas, Lophophorous (Danphe), Himalayan Tahrs etc.
• EBC is considered as the waste dump at the highest altitude. Eco – expeditions are held and waste management programs are being addressed.
• Fear of avalanches because of the unstable icefalls. Technical necessity to cross the icefalls.

EBC: A homeland to Sherpas

• Sherpa is an ethnic group who are native to higher mountains in Nepal. Sherpa community stands as the prime local community in the Everest region. Anyone can doubt anyone’s living in the area other than the Sherpas. They are born that way.
• Sherpas are backbone of the Everest summits, climbing, rescuing, as a porter, lodge owners, way guiding and route fixing.
• Sherpa culture is celebrated in the monasteries and villages there. Very popular monasteries like Tengboche and Dingboche, famous village like Namche Bazar acts as a gateway of Everest.
• Flourish of Tourism industry around Everest Region and Everest Base Camp employs more than 80% of locals.
• Respect for Sherpa community is very relevant to hinge the EBC’s future and ensure you success of the trip.

EBC Map

Everest Base Camp on helicopters

Everest Base Camp is very reachable via helicopters too. They usually play an essential role because of Everest region being at highest altitude.

• For Evacuation system to rescue climbers, in case of any emergency, or disasters.
• For the supply of oxygen cylinders, emergency foods, medicals, and other equipment.
• For those who avoid trek, for luxury, helicopters are used.

Helipads in EBC

There are not much permanent helipads in and around EBC because of the harsh weather conditions, and Glacier shifts.  But here are some:

1. In Kalapatthar, above 5,545 meters is common as high budget landing spot as well.
2. In Gorakshep, above 5,164 meters altitude. This is the closest one as it is just 2 and a half hour walk away from EBC.
3. In Pheriche, above 4,240 meters altitude.
4. In Lukla, above 2,860 meters altitude. It is the basis point of helicopters for in and exit.

Everest Base Camp is the logistical hub for Everest summiteers, and dream destination of trekkers. The legacy of Everest region always follow the location of EBC. EBC, as a cultural majestic hub, logistical nexus and historical landmark will always continue to evolve as the best if we take care of climate change, waste management, eco – expeditions, responsible tourism and respect for the Sherpa community.