Do you love the sense of accomplishment? That drive to get over the line even when the odds are stacked against you? Then climbing to Everest Base Camp should be top of your bucket list. Everest is the highest peak globally at an elevation of 29,031.7ft. It is placed in the Mahalangur Himal sub-range of the Himalayas, with the China-Nepal border running across its summit point. Everest has two base camps on adjacent sides of the mountain. South Base Camp in Nepal at an altitude of 17,598ft, and North Base Camp is in Tibet, China, at an altitude of 16,900ft.

Getting to Everest Base Camp is a top-tier achievement for any traveler. Routes are taking adventurous climbers to the base of Everest called Sagamartha in Nepali and Chomolungma in Tibetan. There is always a sense of pride after one has conquered Mother Nature. And it is always telling on their faces after returning from the expedition. However, the route has become so famous in the region that there are growing concerns by authorities over trekker traffic jams, littering on the trail. 

Climbing to Everest Base Camp has been contextualized by many travelers. However, I believe that between Everest and Kilimanjaro, the latter is a much more challenging path. Climbing Kilimanjaro at the height of 5895m is done in six days, with the final summit climb being 1200m. Compared to Everest base camp of 5600m, it is done in nine days giving the climbers a longer time to acclimatize. Furthermore, Kilimanjaro has five centers to sleep while on the ascent, while in Nepal, there are two rest days on the course, which again allows for good acclimatization. 

Everest is a much easier task, but it is no pushover. While not technically challenging, the climb is still brutally tough on one’s body due to the effects of altitude. Altitude is the one thing you can’t train for before the climb. It is usually the main reason some people never touch base where is 50% less oxygen as compared to sea level. The secret is proper acclimatization which is possible slow pace, good itinerary, good feeding, and adequate hydration.

• How to prepare for the climb to Everest Base Camp

Don’t get discouraged by the internet mambo-jumbo. You don’t need to be a pro-athlete to do this climb. It comes down to the small matter of fitness. If you have done 5-6 hours up and down a hill in a single day, then you definitely can pull this climb off. Nevertheless, there is some level of preparation if you are to have an edge.

• You might want to get some work done on the cardiovascular, endurance, and strong leg work if you have been off the park lately. Try emphasizing running, stair climbing, hiking, and other exercises to condition the muscles during the climb, altitude, swimming, yoga, and any other activity that focuses on breathing. 
• Heavy luggage will cost you dearly. As we pack for these expeditions, we tend to pack many things we don’t even need. Aim for 10-15kgs max. The chances are high that a potter will handle your luggage, don’t pack the microwave regardless.
• Footwear should be lightly broken-in boots, trekking socks, sneakers: thermal underwear, two long pants, and three synthetic shirts (avoid cotton). In addition, your shielding layer should include a fleece jacket, two long sleeve shirts, and a raincoat.
• Your first aid kit should contain medication for diarrhea, antibiotics for chest or sinus infection, adhesive bandages, and hydrocolloid blister bandages.
• Get a supply of Nepalese Rupee in cash with you to buy meals, Wi-Fi, showers, and toiletries. Get this from an ATM in Kathmandu before you start your journey. There are few and far between along the route, but small rains can disrupt them.

• What’s it like climbing to Everest Base Camp

There is sheer excitement for those in conquest coupled with friendly natives. The climb feels like a family reunion. Breath-taking scenery, unique local culture make for a pleasant climb. Travelers can visit monasteries with their guides to accustom themselves to the region’s spiritual beliefs.

Days are filled with determined chants. You will pass colorful prayer flags and traverse metal bridges strung across deep canyons. After great strides, evenings are simply platefuls of hot Nepali food, Chai, and catching up with fellow travelers.

The excellent blend of culture, hospitality, and sense of pride after completing the milestone will make climbing to Everest Base Camp an unforgettable experience. 

• What is the best stint of the year to climb to Base Camp

There are mainly two main seasons for climbing to the base camp. That is pre and post-monsoon, which is March to May and October to November. It gets hot in May, just before the monsoon season. You should also expect some rain with the monsoon. From March to May, it starts cold, then gets warmer, and the reverse is true. December temperatures hit below zero but pretty calm days with a lot fewer climbers on the track. If you choose to go during this term, then keeping warm should be the top priority.

• Tips to help you navigate the course

There are so many opinions on the internet on how to climb to base successfully. I, however, believe that treating this as a vacation is the best solution to getting the best thrill.

• Take your time-You are more likely to get there successfully in 10 days but unlikely to make it in eight. Pace yourself as you climb; there is virtually no reason to rush to the base. Given that acclimatization takes a while, you have a higher chance of being a conqueror in 9-10 days.
• Keep alert-The course is vast and properly marked but can pose a threat in some places. For example, there are sheer cliffs that appear even narrower by passing herds of yaks or donkeys. In addition, the pack often has bells, so keep alert so as not to be knocked.
• Proper clothing-The sun at high altitudes is brutal. Cover your face up with a buff or apply a good sunscreen. Wear long-sleeved tops and pants.

I believe you are now ready to get your climbing shoes and conquer Mother Nature. The reward of pride is an individual virtue for everyone to attain.