15 Best Things to Do in Your Everest Trek

The trek through the Everest region is a journey through charming villages, ancient monasteries, and rich traditions. As you trek through diverse terrains, you’ll find yourself surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery on the planet, towering peaks, glacial lakes, and lush forests.

Undoubtedly, the EBC trek is an extraordinary journey. To ensure you make the most of every moment, here are the 15 best things to do.

Explore the Sherpa Museum in Namche Bazaar

Once you reach Namche on day 2 of the trek, you'll have the chance to get used to the altitude. Namche is where many expeditions to Everest and other Himalayan peaks begin. It's also a friendly little market town where you can find all sorts of things, from Tibetan souvenirs to trekking and climbing gear, to help you on your journey.

When in Namche don’t forget to try its famous homemade yak cheese and butter. Besides the usual collection of hotels, restaurants, and equipment stores, one can find a regular pub, Wifi facilities, a place to play pool, and the Sherpa Museum.

In this Museum, there’s a Sherpa Culture museum, the Mt. Everest Documentation Center, the Sherpa Culture Photo Gallery, and Sherpa Himal Art.

The Sherpa Culture Museum is built with traditional Sherpa design and architecture. It has all the old and lost Sherpa artifacts in its original place resembling the Sherpa way of life in the past, before the tourism in this area began.

The house consists of a family living room on the first floor with a separate family praying chappel. Downstairs is the cow stable, yak dung, wood, and hey store just like a traditional Sherpa family house.

The Museum is open to all visitors who come to the Everest region for trekking as well as expeditions or research purposes for a small fee charged at the door.

Likewise, the Mt. Everest Documentation Center is an incredible place to explore the rich history and events that have taken place in the Khumbu region.

You’ll find complete photo collections of the Sherpa climbers who have stepped on the summit of Mt. Everest including the legendary Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, the first to climb Mt.Everest, and Ang Rita Sherpa, the first to climb 10 times without artificial oxygen, are on exhibition seven days a week, 365 days a year. Old days Sherpa climbers with their long history and other mountaineering expeditions related to historical events are displayed.

Furthermore, in the Sherpa culture photo gallery section, there’s a Photographic exhibition of the Sherpa cultural festivals throughout the year, such as the biggest Sherpa festival “Dumje”.

Sherpa traditional wedding,” Fangning” and lots more. The Sherpa way of life, people, field, and hay work, transportation by yak, woodwork, houses, and villages show the changes during the past decades with an additional Museum display.

In addition, Sherpa Himal Art is a collection of paintings of major Himalayan peaks of Nepal and other regions that include all fourteen 8000-meter peaks, accompanied by their detailed history.

So, exploring the museum and Namche Bazaar is a must.

Visit Tengboche Monastery

Tengboche Monastery, in Tengboche, is a well-known Buddhist center where a resident Rinpoche offers blessings to visitors, climbers, and travelers.

Located at 3,867 meters on the main Everest trekking route from Lukla to Everest Base Camp, this monastery is famous for the Mani Rimdu festival in November. This three-day festival features monks performing mask dances that show Buddhism's victory over the Bon religion and the triumph of good over evil.

Visitors are welcome to join the festival, and many trekkers plan their trips to coincide with it. Tours of the monastery are available every afternoon. Tengboche has many rest houses, lodges, and spacious camping sites.

The monastery is surrounded by pines, azaleas, and colorful rhododendrons, with stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Ancient mani stones inscribed with the mantra “Om Mane Padme Hum” and prayer flags add to the scenery.

Besides Tengboche Monastery, there are many other small monasteries, chortens, and hermitages nearby, including those at Pangboche, Thame, Lawdo, Khumjung, and Kunde.

Visit Syangboche Airport and the Yak farm

Syanboche Airport is a domestic airport located in Namchee Bazaar. It was built back in 1971 by a team led by Takashi Miyahara. The airport had its test flight by Royal Nepal Airlines on June 1, 1973. Its main purpose was to serve the Everest View, which was the highest-placed hotel in the world at the time.

You can spend a day exploring Syangboche village and the yak farm. Learn about yak herding, cheese making, and the importance of yaks in the lives of the people in the Khumbu region. You can even try yak butter tea, a local delicacy. Yak cheese is a popular souvenir from Syangboche. Make sure you take one!

Visit Khumjung Village

Khumjung village is worth a visit. There are historical sites and vibrant forests of fir and rhododendron. You’ll also see the Himalayan Monal, blood pheasants, lammergeiers, and even golden eagles. The village has stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including the sacred Khumbila.

The Khumjung Monastery, located at an elevation of 12,400 feet, is a must-visit. This amazing Buddhist Gompa, which is over 400 years old, is home to a very special treasure - a supposedly real Yeti scalp. It's kept in a glass box.

And that's not all, you can also check out the Gompa's ancient Buddhist scriptures and take in the grand statues of Lord Sakyamuni Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava, a highly respected saint from the 7th century.

Visit Khumjung Edmund Hillary School

The school is situated in the stunning Khumjung Valley, surrounded by epic peaks, including the iconic Ama Dablam. The beautiful serenity makes the visit more incredible.

Founded by Sir Edmund Hillary in 1961, the Khumjung School was one of his first projects in the Solukhumbu region. The school was initially comprised of only one classroom but has since been expanded and now educates over 400 students up to the 10th grade.

A visit to the school gives you a wonderful insight into the daily lives of Sherpa students and the amazing educational progress achieved through Hillary's efforts.

Visit Sir Edmund Hillary Memorial Museum and Elderly Care Center

Located in Khunde Village, the museum houses a collection of artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia from Sir Edmund Hillary's expeditions and his humanitarian work. It's a place where trekkers can learn about his life, achievements, and the profound impact he had on the Everest region.

Established to honor Hillary's dedication to the Sherpa people, the center provides care and support for elderly Sherpas. You can experience the compassionate side of Hillary's legacy and the ongoing efforts to support the Sherpa population.

See Khumbu Glacier And Khumbu Ice Fall

The Khumbu Glacier is the world’s highest glacier, originating near Mount Everest at an elevation of approximately 7,600 meters (24,900 feet). This glacier is a major highlight of the Everest Base Camp trek. You can observe the moraine (rocky debris) carried by the glacier and the impressive seracs (ice towers) that dot the glacier’s surface.

One of the most breathtaking features of the glacier is the Khumbu Icefall, a treacherous section of moving ice and crevasses. While trekkers do not cross this section, they can view it from a safe distance at base camp.

For mountaineers, the Icefall is known as one of the most dangerous stages of the Everest ascent, requiring skill and courage to navigate. It requires the use of ladders, ropes, and crampons to cross the numerous crevasses and ice blocks.

Hike To Everest View Point

Among the numerous highlights of the EBC trek, the hike to Everest View Point stands out as one of the most rewarding activities. This part of the journey gives you an incredible view, giving you a sneak peek of the majestic Himalayas even before you reach the base camp.

As its name suggests, the Everest View Point provides a stunning panorama of Mount Everest and its surrounding peaks. Located at an altitude of approximately 3,880 meters (12,730 feet), this viewpoint offers a clear and mesmerizing sight of Everest's towering summit. On a clear day, trekkers can also see other majestic peaks such as Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.

For photography enthusiasts, the Everest View Point is heaven. The breathtaking landscape, combined with the early morning light, creates perfect conditions for capturing stunning photographs. Whether it's the serene beauty of the mountains, the vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the wind, or the charming villages along the way, every moment is a potential masterpiece.

The Everest View Point hike is not just about the views; it’s a spot for acclimatization. Proper acclimatization is essential to prevent altitude sickness. By taking a day to hike up to Everest View Point, trekkers give their bodies a chance to adapt to the thinner air at higher elevations.

The hike to Everest View Point is undoubtedly one of the best things to do during the Everest Base Camp trek.

Hike to Kalapatthar

A hike to Kalapatthar is a must-do on this trek. Kalapatthar, which means "black rock" in Nepali, is located at an elevation of 5,545 meters (18,192 feet). It is renowned for providing the most spectacular views of Mount Everest. From this vantage point, trekkers can gaze directly at Everest’s summit, unobstructed by other peaks.

For photographers, the hike to Kalapatthar is a golden opportunity. The panoramic views from the top encompass Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and the sprawling Khumbu Glacier. The changing light conditions during sunrise and sunset offer incredible opportunities for capturing stunning images.

The hike to Kalapatthar is known for being physically demanding due to its high altitude and steep ascent. However, the challenge is precisely what makes the reward so sweet. The breathtaking views from the top make the effort worthwhile.

Given its high altitude, this hike helps the body adjust to the lower oxygen levels, which is essential for those trying to reach Everest Base Camp and beyond. Remember to spend time at higher elevations and take it slow when ascending. This will help lower the risk of altitude sickness and make your trek safer.

The journey to Kalapatthar takes you through the heart of the Khumbu region, offering a chance to experience the local Sherpa culture. Along the way, trekkers can visit traditional villages, interact with the local people, and explore ancient monasteries.

Do Side Treks  (Gokyo Lakes Trek, Three Passes Trek)

Incorporating side treks like the Gokyo Lakes Trek and the Three Passes Trek into your Everest Base Camp trek gives you an extra dose of adventure, unforgettable views, and a richer cultural experience. It’s like upgrading your trek from incredible to absolutely extraordinary.

Gokyo Lakes Trek is a stunning side trek that offers trekkers the opportunity to explore a series of turquoise glacial lakes located in the Gokyo Valley. This trek not only provides a serene and less crowded alternative to the main EBC route but also presents some of the most picturesque landscapes in the region.

The Gokyo Lakes are surrounded by towering peaks, including Cho Oyu, the sixth-highest mountain in the world. The reflection of these snow-capped giants on the crystal-clear waters of the lakes creates a mesmerizing scene.

In this Gokyo Lake Trek, you must ascend Gokyo Ri, a peak at an altitude of 5,357 meters (17,575 feet). It offers a panoramic view of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The sight of these four 8,000-meter giants in a single frame is a breathtaking reward for trekkers.

Likewise, The Three Passes Trek is considered one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in the Everest region. This trek takes adventurers over three high mountain passes: Kongma La (5,535 meters), Cho La (5,420 meters), and Renjo La (5,360 meters).

The trek traverses a variety of terrains, from lush valleys and alpine meadows to glacial moraines and high mountain passes. In this trek, you’ll experience a wide range of the Himalayas’ natural beauty.

Each pass offers its unique vantage point, providing panoramic views of the Everest range and neighboring peaks.

Unlike the main EBC route, the Three Passes Trek is a bit more off the beaten path. This means you’ll enjoy a bit more solitude and a more intimate experience with the mountains.

Both treks offer more than just stunning views they’re also rich in cultural experiences. From visiting ancient monasteries to interacting with the local Sherpa communities, you’ll get to know the region’s traditions and way of life.

Participate in meditation sessions

Nepal has long been a peaceful haven for Hindu deities and ancient sages. Today, there are a lot of opportunities for people to participate in meditation retreats in Nepal. You can just join a retreat at a monastery or a private center and soak up teachings that have brought enlightenment to many.

There are plenty of specialized centers that offer meditation courses. Some of them even provide accommodation and food along with the classes, while others focus solely on the classes.

One popular spot for meditation classes, especially among foreigners, is the Kapan Monastery. They offer courses that last for months and provide accommodations in apartments located below the monastery.

Adding meditation to your Everest Base Camp trek is a great idea. It helps you physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Witness Exotic wildlife (Sagarmatha National Park)

Experiencing the exotic wildlife of Sagarmatha National Park is one of the best things to do during the Everest Base Camp trek. Sagarmatha National Park is like a hidden gem for animal enthusiasts. It’s home to some incredible creatures that you might not see anywhere else.

For example, Red Panda; These adorable animals are a highlight. With their reddish fur and playful personalities, spotting a red panda can feel like finding a treasure.

Similarly, Himalayan Tahr are large, shaggy animals with impressive horns. They’re great at climbing and can often be seen grazing on the rocky slopes.

Also, Snow leopards are elusive cats and are one of the park’s most mysterious residents. Though they’re hard to spot, just knowing they’re out there makes the trek even more exciting.

Sagarmatha National Park is also a paradise for birdwatchers. The park’s varied elevations and habitats attract numerous bird species, including:

Himalayan Monal, the national bird of Nepal also known as the Himalayan monal, is a colorful pheasant with vibrant plumage. Its striking colors make it a standout sight among the park’s avian inhabitants.

Impeyan Pheasant is another beautiful bird you might encounter is the Impeyan pheasant, known for its spectacular iridescent feathers.

Snowcock with its white plumage and distinctive calls, is another intriguing bird species found in the park.

Not to mention, One of the joys of trekking through Sagarmatha National Park is the thrill of spotting wildlife in its natural habitat.

For nature enthusiasts, witnessing exotic wildlife is a fantastic way to make your trek even more incredible.

Taste Local Food

The Everest Base Camp trek is famous for its stunning views, challenging trails, and the unforgettable experience of standing at the base of Mount Everest. But there’s another part of the trek that shouldn’t be overlooked: the food. Tasting the local cuisine is one of the best and most enjoyable things you can do during your EBC adventure.

The local food in the Everest region is a mix of flavors that are hearty, warming, and perfect for fueling your trek. Here are some dishes you definitely need to try:

Dal Bhat

Dal Bhat is the staple meal of Nepal, consisting of lentil soup (dal), rice (bhat), and various side dishes like vegetables, pickles, and sometimes meat. It’s filling and gives you all the energy you need for trekking.

Momos

These are Nepali dumplings, usually filled with vegetables, meat, or cheese. They’re served with a spicy dipping sauce and are a favorite among trekkers.

Sherpa Stew (Thukpa)

A delicious, hearty soup made with noodles, vegetables, and sometimes meat. It’s perfect for warming up after a long day of trekking.

Tibetan Bread

This fried bread is often served with honey or jam for breakfast. It’s simple but tasty and a great way to start your day.

As you trek through the Himalayas, make sure to savor the flavors of Nepal. It’s a tasty and memorable part of the adventure that you won’t want to miss.

Get an accomplishment certificate

Completing the Everest Base Camp trek is a huge accomplishment that you'll always remember. On your way back from Namche Bazaar to Lukla, you'll have the chance to get an official certificate to celebrate and remember your journey.

As you make your way back to Lukla, you'll come across a checkpoint where you'll need to register your exit. This is just a simple procedure to make sure everyone is accounted for and has safely finished the trek. Plus, the best part is that you can also get your accomplishment certificate while taking care of this administrative step.

At this checkpoint, you can purchase an accomplishment certificate for a nominal fee of USD 3.5. This certificate documents your name, country of origin, and the date of your achievement. Additionally, it includes a record of the places you visited during your trek.

The accomplishment certificate is a wonderful memento to share with friends and family back home. Each time you look at the certificate, it will remind you of Nepal.

For just a few dollars, you get a lifelong memento of your trek. So, as you make your way back to Lukla, don't miss out on this opportunity to commemorate your remarkable achievement.

Helicopter Tours

Helicopter tours are the top activities to do during the EBC trek. It is no surprise that the trek to Everest Base Camp is a demanding journey that takes about two weeks. While the trek itself is incredibly rewarding, the return journey can be equally exhausting.

Considering a helicopter tour back to Kathmandu to avoid the return trek saves you time and energy.

A helicopter tour provides a bird's-eye view of the stunning Himalayan landscape and gives a unique experience that you simply can't get from the ground. You’ll be soaring high above the towering peaks, lush valleys, and winding trails you've just trekked.

We offer Everest Base Camp Trek with a Helicopter Return package. This nine-day trek is the perfect way to experience the majesty of Mount Everest and the surrounding region, without the hassle of a long return journey.

We also have various other helicopter tours which you might be interested in like Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour with Landing Flight and Kathmandu to Lukla Helicopter Flight Booking.