The short version: three of the most asked questions, answered in a line each. The rest of the page goes into detail.
- Why does the 12-day plan include two rest days? The first rest day, at Namche, helps you adjust to about 3,400 m.
- How much higher do I sleep each night on this plan? Roughly, the first night at Phakding is about 2,610 m, then Namche is about 3,440 m, Tengboche about 3,860 m, Dingboche about 4,410 m, Lobuche about 4,910 m and Gorak Shep about 5,164 m.
- Where are altitude problems most likely to appear? Expect mild headaches and poor sleep on the first night in Namche, cold and thin air with the first real breathlessness at Dingboche, and restless sleep at Gorak Shep, even if you feel fine in the day.
Why does the 12-day plan include two rest days?
The first rest day, at Namche, helps you adjust to about 3,400 m. The second, at Dingboche, comes before the most demanding stretch of the trek. Rest days let your body adapt while you sleep at the same height, which lowers the chance of altitude sickness.
How much higher do I sleep each night on this plan?
Roughly, the first night at Phakding is about 2,610 m, then Namche is about 3,440 m, Tengboche about 3,860 m, Dingboche about 4,410 m, Lobuche about 4,910 m and Gorak Shep about 5,164 m. The gains shrink at the top, and two rest nights break up the climb.
Where are altitude problems most likely to appear?
Expect mild headaches and poor sleep on the first night in Namche, cold and thin air with the first real breathlessness at Dingboche, and restless sleep at Gorak Shep, even if you feel fine in the day. These are common, but they should ease with rest.
What should I do if I get a worsening headache?
Stay at the same altitude or go down, and do not keep climbing with a worsening headache. Tell your guide, drink water and rest. If symptoms such as vomiting, confusion or unsteady walking appear, descend at once and arrange evacuation if needed.
Which signs suggest the plan needs changing?
Two nights of poor sleep in a row at the same altitude, or a headache that keeps returning, suggest you should slow down. Add a rest night, drop to a lower village or turn back. Pushing on to keep to the schedule is how small problems become serious.
How quickly can I get lower after Gorak Shep?
Sleeping at Pheriche, about 4,371 m and roughly 800 m below Gorak Shep, usually brings fast relief. The plan descends there after Kala Patthar. If you feel unwell earlier, ask your guide about going down sooner rather than waiting.
What insurance should I carry for the 12-day Everest trek?
Choose a policy that covers trekking to at least 5,545 m, the height of Kala Patthar, and helicopter evacuation. Read the altitude limit carefully, because some policies stop lower. Ask your operator what proof of cover they need before you travel.
