The best places to see Mount Everest are Kala Patthar and Gokyo Ri, both above 5,300 m, and the Everest View Hotel near Khumjung, which is much easier to reach. You cannot see the summit from Everest Base Camp, because the neighbouring peaks hide it.
Kala Patthar
Kala Patthar is a rocky hill of about 5,550 m above Gorak Shep. It is the classic viewpoint for the close-up view of Everest, with Nuptse and Lhotse beside it. Most groups climb it at sunrise or in the late afternoon.
Gokyo Ri
Gokyo Ri, at about 5,350 m, gives a wider view that takes in Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu, with the Gokyo lakes below. It is quieter than Kala Patthar. See Gokyo Ri versus Kala Patthar.
Everest View Hotel and Khumjung
The Everest View Hotel, at about 3,880 m, is a short, high walk from Namche Bazaar. On a clear morning you see Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam from the terrace. It suits people who want the view without a long trek. See Everest View versus Everest Base Camp.
Tengboche
Tengboche monastery stands in a clearing with a wide view of Ama Dablam, Nuptse and the top of Everest. The summit appears behind the Nuptse ridge. It is a lovely stop on the way to base camp.
Why base camp does not show the summit
At Everest Base Camp you are in a valley below the icefall, and the shoulder of Nuptse blocks the summit. Trekkers reach the base camp for the feeling of arrival, and then climb Kala Patthar for the view.
A mountain flight
From Kathmandu, a sightseeing flight of about an hour takes you along the Himalaya, and Everest can be seen from the air in clear weather. It is a good option for people who cannot trek.
Best time of day
Early morning gives the clearest air. Sunrise lights the summit in pink and gold, and cloud builds in the afternoon. Plan your viewpoint climb for dawn if you can.
Which viewpoint suits you
Short on time or fitness: Everest View Hotel. Want the classic photo: Kala Patthar. Want fewer people and a wider scene: Gokyo Ri. Want a full day without altitude: a mountain flight.
Photography tips
Use a telephoto lens or the zoom on your phone for the summit. Shoot early to avoid haze. Keep spare batteries warm inside your jacket, because the cold drains them quickly.
Common questions
Can I see Everest from Kathmandu? Rarely, and only as a distant outline from high points on a very clear day. Can I see Everest from Namche? Not the summit, but you can see Everest from the ridge above the village. Is Kala Patthar worth the effort? Most trekkers say yes.
Plan it
Read the height and how hard the trek is.
