Everest Base Camp Trek by road is a one-of-a-kind package that reaches the Everest Base Camp (5364 meters) without flying to Lukla from Salleri, and attains the height of 5545 meters, at Kala Patthar, within 17 days, tailored to those who want to avoid the Lukla Flight and explore the ancient Sherpa villages and classic route.
Everest Base Camp Trek by Road Overview:
Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the renowned expeditions across the globe that captivates adventure seekers across the world; after all, it is the home of the world's highest peak- Mount Everest (8848.86 meters). There is no doubt that many routes and modes of transportation are being renovated to reach the almighty Everest Base Camp in a few years. Just like that, this Everest Base Camp Trek by road stands out, being the emerging route that ascends to Kalapatthar (5545 m./18194 ft.) by exploring the less crowded trails of the lower Solu district, passes by the lovely ancient Sherpa villages, and avoids the thrilling Lukla flight.
Simply speaking, this Everest Base Camp Trek without Flight to Lukla is a perfect substitute and alternative route for the standard Everest Base Camp trail created for those who are bound by limited timeframes and don't want to be stuck in flight cancellations and delays that often happen during the peak seasons. The best part is! This trek to Everest Base Camp without a Lukla flight can be done in every season and can be easily accomplished by beginners, opening the gate to enthusiastic hikers who often settle back just because of the unmatched holiday duration during peak time.
If you are wondering if this Everest Base Camp Trek by Road via Jeep matches the regular trail, then do not worry! This trek only covers the lower Solu region for 4 days, then ultimately touches the regular Everest Base Camp Trek route and doesn't miss out on navigating through the highlighted corners of the Everest region. In fact, you'll even get to explore more of the Himalayas by settling in at the lower sections that are less facilitated, allowing you to immerse in the tea houses that were like 90's era without being influenced by modernization- a perfect way to immerse in the terraced fields, fresh farms with golden millets, mustards blooming beautifully, sherpa hamlets, and interact with locals.
Our Everest Base Camp Trek by road itinerary begins with a jeep drive to Phaplu Salleri by passing through Bardibas, Banepa, Khurkot, and the notable mark of Okhaldhunga. The drive continues to Paiya Thamdanda along the spectacular vista of Lhotshe, Makalu Numpur Himal, rising beautifully in the clear sky. Here, the houses are made by slatted roofs, and the farms of marigold, where the yaks can be seen grazing, and the sherpas are fully dressed up with traditional attire, welcome us to the territory of the Solukhumbu district. Then, afterwards, the trail goes by the walking trail to Chauri Kharka, named "Cattle Pasture" by visitors, where the group of cows on the pasture seems unreal.
From here, after leaving the Chauri Kharka behind, the EBC Trekking meanders through Phakding, from where the classic route gets linked that takes us to Monjo, from where the conservation area of "Sagarmatha National Park" begins. Walking along the Dudh Koshi River and Bhote Koshi River side by side, winding through the verdant forests of rhododendrons, pines, and bamboo with an enchanting vista of Mt. Ama Dablam, the hike leads to the town hub of Namche Bazaar.
The first acclimatization day is set here in Namche, where we'll walk uphill to "Everest View Hotel", the highest situated 5-star hotel in the world from where more than 10 notable iconic peaks can be seen, which is also one of the best Everest viewpoints. Not only that, the visit to the "Khumjung Monastery" is also the highlighted section of this rest day where it is highly believed that the "YETI SKULL" is preserved along the thangka paintings, ancient sculptures, mani walls, and chortens reflecting the history of the gompa.
Another acclimatization is set at Dingboche, with an ascent to the famous "Nangkartshang Peak". Before that, we get to navigate through Tengboche and Pangboche by paying a visit to "Tengboche Monastery" and "Pangboche Gompa," both stand out being the biggest and oldest monasteries within the Everest region of Nepal.
Continuing the journey from Dingboche to Lobuche, the trail steers to Gorakshep, from where we will reach the iconic Everest Base Camp (5364 meters) with a glimpse of "The Khumbu Icefall" and "Khumbu Glacier." While we might perceive it as the end of the fascinating journey, the vantage point of Kala Patthar awaits us with a surrounding panorama vista of none other than Mt. Everest, with other surrounding peaks making our sweat, breath, and penny one hundred percent worth it. Retracing the steps of Pheriche, Namche Bazaar, Cheplung, and Thamdanda, the Everest Base Camp Trek without Lukla flight ends right after we take a jeep drive from Paiya to Kathmandu.
To sum up, this EBC Trek by road is a roller coaster ride that takes you to relish in the rich villages of the Sherpa by touching the two iconic districts- Solu and Khumbu region, letting you connect with the locals and their lifestyle. Sometimes, the journey is more than just the destination, and this odyssey promises to offer you the best of the Himalayas without missing out on anything. Bookings are open for 2025/2026 and 2027. Are your heart and soul open to taking on this intriguing odyssey with us? Well, do not wait longer!
Highlights
- Scenic drive to Everest Base Camp by private jeep
- Drive through farmlands, flowing rivers, and terraced fields, passing by notable towns
- Explore the lower trail of the Solu district through many Sherpa hamlets such as Paiya, Salleri, Thamdanda, Chauri Kharka, and Chheplung, experiencing the ancient-style tea house trek
- Walk along the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sagarmatha National Park
- Encounter the bravery, rich culture, and warm hospitality of Sherpa communities
- Trail by the verdant rhododendron, oaks, and pines, and the Himalayan rare wildlife
- Visit the ancient monastery: "Tengboche and Pangboche Monastery"- the oldest and biggest monastery
- Attain the foothill of the world's highest peak- Mt. Everest, through the shining Khumbu Glacier
- Immerse yourself in the spectacular vista of iconic peaks, including 5 out of the eight highest peaks that reside here in Nepal
- Get a trail along blooming forests, cascading waterfalls, and river streams crossing several thrilling suspension bridges
Why do the Everest Base Camp Trek by Road without Flight?
The common questions, among most of the hikers, basically remain: why choose this 17-day Everest Base Camp Trek without LuklaFlight amongst all of the packages? One of the main reasons is that it is the perfect substitute for the Lukla Flight, which causes many hassles when it hits the peak seasons. Not only that, it also lets you explore the best of the lower Solu Trails, where you can gain in-depth knowledge of locals, as we'll be settling in authentic Sherpa villages en route before we touch the main crowded point, Phakding, via Lukla.
On top of that, this journey, the Everest Base Camp Trek by Road via Jeep, acts as a huge safety net for newbie or even pro hikers, as the starting trail of this trip begins from Kathmandu to Salleri (2469 m./8260 ft.) and gradually ascends by 400-500 meters each day before reaching the high altitudes. Whereas, by flight, it directly takes you to Lukla above 2800 meters, which could lead to altitude sickness.
All in all, it takes you on a complete roller coaster ride, beginning with a scenic drive by jeep to Everest Base Camp (EBC), by passing farmlands, lovely hills, and mountains and diverse landscapes offering meaningful insights of Sherpa locals and the way of their livelihood in the Himalayas without compromising the iconic mountain views throughout the journey.
Avoiding the Lukla Flight to do the EBC Trekking
WELL! First and foremost, the main highlight, or you can say the motive of this Everest Base Camp Trek by road itinerary is to avoid the "nerve-wracking Lukla Flight" that might cause a lot of delays and cancellations, which can delay your way back home gets delayed creating a panic situation. Even during the crowded seasons, such as Autumn and Spring, the flight to Lukla is diverted to Manthali Ramechhap airport due to the bad weather, traffic congestion, or even a simple disturbance in the climatic conditions can lead to 3-4 days, which surely doesn't fit in everyone's timeframe.
Also, taking a flight is not everyone's cup of tea, to be honest; not everyone doesn't feels comfortable with such heights, especially when the Lukla Flight has a short runway of only 527 meters. Even though the flight is safe to undertake with almost zero accidents in recent years, the delays, chaos, and crowded situations can make the trip even a nightmare to begin with.
That is why this package of the Everest Base Camp Trek without flight is a perfect choice for those who want to complete the journey with fixed departure dates along a high safety net.
Nonetheless, if you are still looking forward to including a aircraft breathtaking view above the peaks with a thrill of flying through the clouds then, you can also go for a Helicopter Tour to EBC or just check out our other packages within this Everest region that have at least more than 10 ways and routes to do this trek to Everest Base Camp.
Whatever you choose to opt for, we at Destination Himalaya guarantee your safety with a fun adventure at a reasonable rate at the market.
Journey through Lower Solu Region: Exploring Phaplu Salleri, Thamdanda, and Chauri Kharka
One of the most fascinating things about undertaking this Everest Base Camp Trekking without a flight to Lukla is that you get to walk along the less crowded and off-beaten route, even if it's only for 3 days at the starting point, before connecting the trail from Phakding, that are flooded with hikers.
While settling in at Salleri, Paiya, and Chauri Kharka and passing through many ancient Sherpa villages along the way, the cultural immersion and the traditions of locals truly captivate us. The terraced farms are beautifully adorned with golden shades by the plantation of millets, mustards, and other thriving flowers, where the yaks are grazing peacefully, stands out as one of the best memories.
Not only that, unlike the standard Everest Base Camp route, where the trails, lodges, and pathways are well maintained, in the lower Solu region, we get to explore the remoteness of ancient trails and tea houses being slatted with wood and roofs just like the old days. What would be an idyllic way to begin the adventure? Walking along the peaceful surroundings and exploring the rich Sherpa culture of ancient times, before we get to the crowded area of the Khumbu region?
Breathtaking Mountain Views in every stride
Throughout this 17-day trek, the glance of diverse landscapes and vegetation slowly changes into the several snowcapped peaks, such as Pumori (7161 m./23498 ft.), Cho Oyu (8186 m./26284 ft.) Tharmserku (6608 m./21559 ft.), Lhotshe (8516 m./26930 ft.), Nuptse (7851 m./25694 ft.), and Makalu (8485 m./27834 ft.) accompany us in every stride.
Not only that, but the vista of Mt. Ama Dablam (6812 m./22469 ft.) just right in front makes us feel like we are almost about to touch it. "The Khumbu Glacier, aka The Khumbu Icefall," after attaining Everest Base Camp and the close-up view of the world's highest peak- Mt. Everest (8848.86 m./29036 ft.) from the vantage point of Kala Patthar with surrounding peaks makes our trek unforgettable.
Customizing the Everest Trek by Jeep Drive Itinerary for 2025/2026/2027
As we are quite familiar with every explorer's own holiday duration, budget, and preferences, we are open to customizing your Everest Base Camp Trek by road itinerary as per your wish! Let us know how you would like the trek to go. With our pro-expert team's guidance, we can easily alter your packages; just tell us your plan for the years 2025 and 2026, and your adventure will be crafted in the blink of an eye.
This 17-day Everest Base Camp Trek by jeep can be tailored in the blink of an eye according to your taste, route, and demands. Make your year better and hike to the pristine region of Everest with the help of DHT. Let us know your holiday plan; we can help turn your imagination into reality by meeting your trekking schedule expectations.
For more info, mail us at info(a)destinationhimalayatreks.com, or WhatsApp, Viber, IMO, or directly call us at +977 9851016814 or +977 9851146814 anytime 24/7 hours.
Cost of Everest Base Camp Trek without Lukla Flight for 2025 and 2026
Looking forward to this adventure, but might be wondering how much this Everest Base Camp Trek by road without Lukla flight costs It is slightly cheaper than the standard EBC Trek cost, as it is a roadway by jeep. However, the cost through the drive and Lukla flight won't be much different, as it has additional days of 3-4 days at least, covering the accommodations, meals, and jeep drive cost.
However, by opting for our Everest Base Camp Trek by road package, all logistics like permits, lodging, standard meals, and transportation costs will be covered without any hassle. The price varies based on the number of trekkers you will be traveling with; the costs start from USD 999 to USD 1350, depending on the no. of people in the group.
| No. of Pax | Standard Price |
| 1 | 1350 |
| 2-5 | 1290 |
| 6-9 | 1149 |
| 10-12 | 1040 |
| 13-18 | 999 |
Everest Base Camp Trek by Drive Vs Flight
Even though the expedition's ultimate goal is the legendary base camp of the world's highest peak, Mount Everest, both offer unique insights and perspectives of the highlands, starting right from the very first. While the route to the Everest Base Camp by road follows the ancient and classic trailhead for 3 days, to reach Phakding, the Lukla Flight takes you directly to Phakding on the very 1st day. During the peak season, many hikers tend to choose the ground route, as it is much cheaper and also avoids the risk of the Lukla Flight, which makes the overall trip much more convincing, without any hassle of delay or cancellation of the flight to Lukla, which usually happens at the peak seasons of Spring and Autumn.
The Everest Trek by road route starts with a jeep drive from Kathmandu and departs early in the morning, for 9 hours, to reach Salleri on the first day, and the jeep drive continues on the very next day, toward Tham Danda, covering 5-6 hours, whereas the walking trail begins from the 3rd day, to Chauri Kharka and rejoins the trail of regular route to EBC on the 4th day from Namche Bazaar - 3440 meters. Even though this route might seem like a lengthy route, it offers a glimpse of the local lifestyle, ancient Sherpa hamlets, lush green valleys dotted with red blossom rhododendrons, and overall, the untamed beauty of the lower Solu district, with distinct landscapes, terraced fields, and great mountains.
On the other hand, the Lukla Flight has a high possibility of diversion to the Manthali/Ramechhap Airport, due to the huge traffic congestion during the seasonal time. If such happens, then you gotta take a drive at 3 AM, for 7-8 hours to reach the airport. Even though the flight gets diverted to Ramechhap, the flight can be delayed for several days or hours, depending on the weather conditions, and the availability of Lukla Flight tickets is nearly impossible at the last hour, in Spring and Autumn. Meanwhile, if you are willing to opt fr the thrilling flight, then we at Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition will arrange the flight tickets for you, ensuring a smooth, comfortable, and safe ride.
To know more about the world's most dangerous flight to Lukla, you can check our detailed blog: Lukla Flight detailed information for 2025 and 2026 Everest region hikers.
Transportation Facilities for EBC Trek by Road
To start the journey to the starting point of the Everest Base Camp Trek via ground route - Salleri and Tham Danda, there are only two options, private or shared jeeps, as the public bus, or the private car, isn't possible, for such long and bumpy rides, hece, the jeep remains as a suitable option.
Taking a shared jeep means sharing 1 jeep with 4 to 5 unknown passengers, if you are a solo hiker, which stands out to be cost-friendly; however, mit ight be a bit disturbing and congested for a long ride of 8 to 9 hours. Whereas the private jeep is more comfortable and luxurious, where you can stop by whenever you want for rest, snacks, and a quick visit en route, that captivates you. If your group comprises more than 4 hikers, then hiring a private jeep is a better option, where the cost can be shared.
Our Everest Base Camp Trek without Lukla Flight package covers private jeep transportation; hence, you do not have to add extra cost or any sort of charges, or extra tip the driver if you want. However, if you want to lower the budget by a few dollars and opt for sharing a jeep, then it will be managed as well.
Why trek with Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition?
With our service of more than two decades to all the enthusiastic wanderers, we assure and take pride in your trek to the Himalayas, one hundred percent worthy. Our trekking guides are registered and have experience assisting hikers to the Everest region every single year.
WE highly believe in sustainability and giving back to society; our DHT Team comprises individuals from every region, ensuring that they give the best services out in the market with a great safety net as they are medically equipped, and also make the journey enjoyable as they know every single highlighted corner. WE also look forward to transparency; that means nothing is hidden in our Everest Base Camp Trek by road package, which means we do not charge anything extra, such as taxes and other service charges. Just look thoroughly at our include/exclude section to understand it better.
Also, considering the fact that you might want to explore other adventures within this region, please feel free to check our other loved and famous packages like: Everest Gokyo Lakes Trek, Luxury Everest Trek, 3 Passes Trek, Everest Base Camp Short Trek, and many others with us. Besides, to enhance your trip, 1 level up, we've also several other additional benefits for this trek to Everest Base Camp by road, from the very beginning and throughout the journey.
- Free Airport pick-up and drop-off via private vehicle
- Free Staycation for 1 to 3 days, before and after the trip at one of our standard category hotels - Hotel Bihani.
- Customization availability for any kind of trip as per your preference, budget, and choices
- 5% off for early birds for groups of more than 2 hikers
- Pre-Briefing of the trip before booking online, if you are out of the country, whereas an in-person Briefing is conducted after arriving in Nepal
- 24-hour communication along the trail; via WhatsApp, Viber, direct call, satellite phone, etc (whatever is feasible to you)
- Destination Himalaya Treks T-shirt, Duffle Bag, Cap, and Sleeping bag arrangement (must be returned)
- Oximeter - to check the pulse rate, and a water purification tablet - to purify the water
- Free Luggage Storage for multiple days, even before and after the expedition, with high security
- Experienced Guidance for the trip customization
