Mountains To See On The Way To Everest Base Camp Trek.
The Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek is a dream for many adventurers, offering breathtaking views of some of the world’s tallest mountain. As you hike through the Khumbu region, you’ll pass through picturesque villages, cross thrilling suspension bridges, and witness towering peaks that define the Himalayas. Here are the must-see mountains along the way:
1. Mount Everest (8,848.86m)
The world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest, is the crowning glory of the trekker. Although not seen from lower parts of the trail, the first glimpse is close to Namche Bazaar. Ascending, the huge form of the mountain is seen on the horizon. The most breathtaking panorama is from Kala Patthar, a vantage point that provides a close view of Everest’s south face. Standing at Everest Base Camp itself, you’ll see the Khumbu Icefall, the treacherous gateway for climbers heading to the summit.
Though of record stature, Everest holds immense cultural significance in Nepal, whose name is “Sagarmatha” and “Chomolungma” in Tibet. Mountaineers, trekkerers, and adventurers have been drawn to the summit for centuries. A view of Everest from close proximity is a sight humbling, an insight into man’s determination and nature’s might.
Key Points:
- Kala Patthar (5,545m) view is enhanced.
- Experience Everest Base Camp and Khumbu Icefall.
- Learn sherpa cultures’ cultural values.
2. Lhotse Mountain (8,516m)
The fourth tallest mountain in the world, Lhotse, follows the same route as Everest but diverges to its own distinct summit. Lhotse lies within the Everest Massif, and the massive south face is seen from most trekking vantage points. Trekkers initially get a real view of Lhotse at Tengboche, and it only becomes increasingly more beautiful as they climb higher to Lobuche and Gorak Shep.
Lhotse is renowned for its icy, steep ascent, particularly its gigantic south face, the most difficult climb in the world. Lhotse, although lower than Everest, is a giant itself, and its beautiful ridges and glaciers are part of the region’s breathtaking views.
Key Points:
- The south face of Lhotse is the most difficult climb in the world of mountaineering.
- Everest and Lhotse share the same route ascending to Camp 3
- Tengboche and above are the most favored spots for the view.
3. Nuptse Mountain (7,861m)
Nuptse, a subsidiary of the Everest Massif, is a high ridge on the face of Everest and Lhotse. Although smaller than its neighbors, its rugged ridges and cliff faces are a breathtaking sight and more so as viewed from Everest Base Camp. From here, the sunset is an out-of-this-world sight that takes your breath away.
Nuptse” is “West Peak” in Tibetan, and it was given this name because of its proximity to Everest. Nuptse is hardly ever climbed because it consists of icy and steep ridges but forms part of the classic Everest view from Base Camp.
Key Features:
- Dramatic ridge of the Everest Massif.
- The Everest Base Camp view at sunset is great.
- Hardly ever climbed because it consists of icy and steep ridges.
4. Ama Dablam Mountain (6,812m)
The prettiest of the summits visible on the Everest Base Camp trek, Ama Dablam was named so because it resembles a mother (ama) cradling a child, with ridges of glaciers forming a necklace. So pretty a summit is visible early in the trek with some of the best views being from Namche Bazaar and Tengboche.
Ama Dablam is as photogenic a view; it’s a prized climb peak to boot. The rocky, exposed ridges give a technical climb, and veteran mountaineers from around the globe come a-knockin’. Its pyramid summit stands radiant high on the dark blue Himalayan horizon, and it’s the most snapped peak in the area.
Key Highlights:
- It is called as “Matterhorn of the Himalayas”.
- One of the most photographed and photogenic summits
- Optimum views from Namche Bazaar and Tengboche.
5. Thamserku Mountain (6,608m)
Thamserku appears first of the grand mountains on the skyline as trekkers ascend to Namche Bazaar. The harsh ridges and tapering summits offer a traditional backdrop to the Sherpa town. Less showy than Everest or Ama Dablam, the summit is a classic feature of the Khumbu region.
While standing relatively shorter in height than other mountains in the district, Thamserku is by no means an easy climb. The almost vertical ice face of the mountain makes it possible for a technical climb, and so it is mostly confined to experienced mountaineers. The mountain is even scenic when the sun breaks out on its snow face.
Key Highlights:
- Scenic sight of Namche Bazaar
- Best viewed on Phakding to Namche trail
- Less crowded but challenging peak to climb
6. Kangtega Mountain (6,782m)
Kangtega, spoken alongside Thamserku, is a scenic mountain that graces the EBC trek. It has also been referred to as “Snow Saddle” because it looks like the saddle of a peak. It is visible from Namche Bazaar and distance, one of the beautiful Himalayan range.
Kangtega is never climbed due to its technically difficult routes but is one of the most scenic mountains of the area. It appears extremely beautiful in the morning when sun rays hit its white ridges.
Key Highlights:
- Otherwise also known as the “Snow Saddle” mountain.
- Most viewed from Namche Bazaar and Tengboche.
- Rarely climbed due to its technicity.
7. Pumori Mountain (7,161m)
Pumori is perhaps one of the most recognizable mountains in view from Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. Its Sherpa title, “Unmarried Daughter,” gives off an atmosphere of romance. Its pyramid summit under the terminus of the Khumbu Glacier is any photographer’s pleasure and trekker’s delight.
Pumori is also a testing peak for mountaineers, and even a training ground for the Everest climbers. Its long ridges and ice face form the harsh but grand vista of the area.
Key Highlights:
- Best view point of Kala Patthar.
- Scenic attraction of the Everest Base Camp landscape.
- Popular for Everest trainee climber.
8. Khumbutse Mountain (6,665m)
Khumbutse is the first visible peak on the Nepal-Tibet border and can be seen from Everest Base Camp. It is among the great scenery of the Khumbu Glacier and adds to the scene of mountains near the base camp.
Key Highlights:
- First visible peak on the Nepal-Tibet border
- Best enjoyed scenery from Everest Base Camp
- Adds to the beautiful scene of the Khumbu Glacier
9. Tawoche Mountain (6,495m)
Tawoche’s sudden, cliff-like attitude is the most spectacular of mountains on the trek. It is best seen from Dingboche, where its serrated ridges make a photographic silhouette on the horizon.
Key Highlights:
- Best viewed from Dingboche
- Famous for rock and sheer faces
- Less visited but imposing presence on the trek
10. Cholatse Mountain (6,440m)
Cholatse is breathtaking with its knife-edged sawtooth ridges and pointed profile. It is a summit technically but a prominent mountain on the eastern and western horizon east and west of Gokyo and Lobuche for mountaineer.
Key Highlights:
- Most impressive views from Dingboche and Gokyo.
- One of the region’s technically most difficult summits to climb.
- Beautiful reflection in the glacial lakes of Gokyo.
Conclusion
The Everest Base Camp trek is as much a test of physical stamina as of being able to witness some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in the world. From the towering bulk of Mount Everest itself to the behemoth of a mountain Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Pumori peaks, the trek provides the chance to behold the Himalayas in all their glory at close range. Each mountain we climb, each new individual and challenge, adds to the richness of the trek’s diversity. Serious climber or serious trekker, the sight of stunning beauty, the cultural experience, and the dynamics between trekkers interacting all combine to make the trek a lifelong memorable experience. Contact us today at Happy Mountain Nepal, Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok.
FAQs
1. When is the best time to trek to Everest Base Camp?
Pre-monsoon (spring) season, late March to early May, and post-monsoon (autumn) season, late September to early November, are the best times to complete the Everest Base Camp trek. It is good weather and blue sky time.
2. How challenging is the Everest Base Camp trek?
Everest Base Camp trek is of moderate level of difficulty. The trek involves steep slopes, high altitude, and extensive walking hours but within the reach of any individual in good physical shape without any mountaineering.
3. What is the highest altitude of the trek?
The highest altitude of the trek is Kala Patthar at an altitude of 5,545 meters (18,192 feet) with panoramic view of Mount Everest and mountains.
4. How do I trek to Everest Base Camp?
Trek is 12-14 days with rest days acclimatizing to prevent illness.
5. Do I have a guide and porter for trekking?
Trekking on your own is out of style, but a guide and/or porter is highly recommended.
For your safety, orientation, and to carry packs. A guide also makes your trip easier by educating you on local things.
6. What is the accommodation like on the trek?
Accommodation during trekking is usually in teahouses with basic rooms and food. Facilities decline as you go higher.
7. Is Everest Base Camp trek safe?
It is extremely safe if you are taking proper precautions, such as acclimatizing well, being well hydrated by drinking lots of water, and being serious about altitude sickness. Trek always with a responsible guide or group.
8. What do I pack for the Everest Base Camp trek?
The necessities are good treks, warm clothing, sleeping bag, trekking poles, first aid kit, headlamp, sun protection, and a decent camera.
9. Do I need trekking experience if I do the Everest Base Camp trek?
You don’t need trekking experience but it’s always preferable. Anyone can make the trek if he/she goes at his/her own pace and acclimatizes.
10. How do I prevent altitude sickness when trekking?
Avoid altitude sickness with gradual ascent, well hydrated, with fuel and rest days trying to acclimatise. In critical case if altitude sickness is triggered, then descend to lower altitudes as soon as possible.