Lobuche to Everest Base Camp on the Everest Base Camp trek covers 2 stages, via Gorak Shep. It goes from about 4,910 m to 5,364 m, a net gain of roughly 450 m. Total walking time is about 4.5 to 6.5 hours.
Quick facts
- Start: Lobuche, about 4,910 m
- End: Everest Base Camp, 5,364 m
- Change: a net gain of roughly 450 m
- Stages: 2
- Total time: about 4.5 to 6.5 hours of walking
- Hardest stage: hard
Stage by stage
- Lobuche to Gorak Shep: 2.5 to 3.5 hours (hard)
- Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp: 2 to 3 hours each way, or 6 to 8 hours for the return trip (hard)
How to split it
A fit walker could cover it in one long day, but most trekkers split it across stages. The route passes through Gorak Shep. Lodge availability changes by season, so confirm night stops with your operator.
Altitude and health
This route reaches about 5,364 m. Altitude sickness is possible above 3,000 m, so walk slowly, drink water and tell your guide about headaches, nausea or poor sleep. Altitudes vary by a few tens of metres between maps and guidebooks.
Reverse direction
Walking Everest Base Camp to Lobuche is the same route in reverse. It is mostly downhill and usually quicker, but a long descent is hard on the knees, so poles help.
Common questions
- How long is Lobuche to Everest Base Camp? Total walking time is about 4.5 to 6.5 hours, depending on pace and stops.
- Which places are on the way from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp? The route passes Gorak Shep.
Plan it
Back to all route information or see the Everest Base Camp trek guides.
