Guide to Everest Base Camp Trek: Permits Costs, Process, and Tips

Published On : 21st Mar, 2024 By Adventure

Everest Base Camp Trek Permits: Everything You Need to Know

When you hear the name Nepal, most people immediately think of the towering Mt. Everest, the highest mountain in the world. Trekking to its base camp is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, attracting adventurers globally. The Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek is typically 12–14 days long and requires trekkers to obtain specific permits before entering the region.

Table of Content

Permits are official documents issued by the government that regulate access to trekking areas. Their purpose is to protect the environment, conserve cultural heritage, ensure ecosystem preservation, and guarantee trekkers’ safety. Trekking without the proper permits is illegal in Nepal and can result in fines, imprisonment, or even a lifetime ban from trekking in the country.

1. Permits Required for the Everest Base Camp Trek

There are three main permits required for the Everest Base Camp trek:

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit (SNP Permit)
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit (KPL Permit)
Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GCAP) – only for alternative routes via Jiri

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

The Sagarmatha National Park Permit is mandatory for all trekkers entering Sagarmatha National Park, the area surrounding Mt. Everest.

Purpose:
- Protects the unique Himalayan ecosystem
- Preserves local flora and fauna
- Supports sustainable tourism and park management
Where to Obtain:
- Nepal Tourism Board office, Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu
- Sagarmatha National Park entrance at Monjo
- Online through the Nepal Tourism Board’s website
Documents Required:
- Passport-size photograph
- Photocopy of passport

This permit allows trekkers to legally enter the park and helps authorities monitor visitor numbers and maintain environmental standards.

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit

This permit is required to enter the Khumbu region, which encompasses the Everest trekking route.

Purpose:
- Tracks the number of trekkers in the region
- Ensures safety and responsible tourism
- Supports local administration
Where to Obtain:
- Tourist Information Centers in Lukla or Monjo
Documents Required:
- Passport photocopy
- Passport-size photo
Special Notes:
- Guides are not required to obtain this permit; trekkers can apply individually
- It contributes to the local community and helps regulate tourism flow

Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit (GCAP)

This permit is only necessary if you trek via Jiri, an alternative longer route to Lukla.

Purpose:
- Protects the biodiversity and environment of the Gaurishankar Conservation Area
- Encourages sustainable tourism
Where to Obtain:
- Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu
- Local offices along the Jiri route

2. Trek Card for Everest Base Camp Trek

Since September 2022, all EBC trekkers are required to have a Trek Card, a digital tracking system to ensure trekkers’ safety.

Purpose:
- Keeps track of trekkers on the trail
- Ensures accountability at checkpoints
- Increases safety in emergencies
How it Works:
- There are six checkpoints along the Everest Base Camp trail
- Trekkers scan their Trek Card at the start of the day and at the day’s final destination
Where to Obtain:
- At Lukla when obtaining the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Permit
- Online via the Khumbu municipality trek card portal or app
Documents Required:
- Colored photocopy of your passport
Cost: Free of charge

3. Cost of Everest Base Camp Trek Permits

The total cost depends on the trek route and nationality. Approximate costs are:

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit + Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Permit: NPR 1,500 – 3,000 per person (~USD 11–22)
Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit: Varies depending on route and duration

Note: All payments must be made in Nepali Rupees (NPR). Foreign currencies such as USD or Euros are not accepted.

4. Process to Obtain Permits

Step-by-step process:

Visit the authorized office (Kathmandu, Lukla, Monjo) or online portal
Submit all required documents (passport, photos, itinerary)
Pay the required fees in Nepali Rupees
Receive your permits and/or Trek Card
Carry the permit with you during the trek; authorities may check at checkpoints

This process ensures that all trekkers comply with government regulations while protecting the environment and local communities.

5. Do You Need a Guide to Obtain Permits?

No guide is required for EBC trek permits
The Khumbu region is exempt from Nepal’s general solo-trekker rule
Local guides themselves do not require permits but help trekkers navigate the permit process

6. Important Tips for Trekkers

Always carry both original permits and digital copies
Submit all documents correctly to avoid delays
Check Nepalese currency availability before payment
Comply with rules at checkpoints to avoid fines or bans
Plan permits in advance, especially during peak trekking seasons (Spring & Autumn)

7. Final Thoughts

Obtaining permits for the Everest Base Camp trek is straightforward but crucial. With the Sagarmatha National Park Permit, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit, and Trek Card, you can legally and safely explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas.