The Everest Circuit is an incredible hike that takes you to some of the most breathtaking views in the world. Trekkers on this amazing journey will traverse through a variety of terrains, from lush green forests to the jagged snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas. Along the way, they will be rewarded with stunning panoramic vistas of the highest, and most famous, mountain range in the world.
Whether you're a beginner hiker or a seasoned veteran, the Everest Circuit is sure to be an unforgettable experience and the most rewarding hike you can ever take.
What is the Everest Circuit?
The Everest Circuit is an incredible trekking route located in the stunning Himalayas of Nepal. This incredible hike takes travelers near some of the most famous mountains in the world. It offers panoramic views of the world’s highest peaks and provides some of the most rewarding experiences available.
The Everest Circuit is a very popular hike that's undertaken by visitors from around the world. It is a journey of hundreds of kilometers taking around 17-19 days to complete and allowing hikers to traverse some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in the world. You'll reach a maximum altitude of 5,550 meters or 18,208'.
Depending on the tour company you use, your hike and itinerary is going to be different. Most groups start in Lukla, follow the Dudh Koshi River and spend time in a few small villages along the way. You'll likely hike in Sagarmatha National Park and then head to Namche Bazaar. You'll also make it all the way to Everest Base Camp on most hikes, where you'll get to see the stunning and terrifying Khumbu Icefall.
During the hike, trekkers will pass through traditional villages, cross high passes, and experience some of the world’s most awe-inspiring views. The Everest Circuit hike is a truly remarkable journey, with travelers being rewarded with some of the most breathtaking sights imaginable.
When is the Best Time to Hike the Everest Circuit?
The best time to hike the Everest Circuit is from March-May or from September to November. This is also the peak season for trekkers, with October being the busiest month of all.
If you're looking for a quieter experience, aim to visit in late November or early December, when temperatures are cooler but still comfortable. It's important to note that while the days tend to be clear and sunny during this period, the nights can be very cold. Be sure to pack warm clothing and a sleeping bag designed for temperatures as low as -10 degrees Celsius. Make sure to contact the guiding company you're planning to use to find out when they think the best time to visit is, remember, they're the experts!
What Should I Bring?
No matter the season, it's important to bring the necessary gear for your Everest Circuit hike. Make sure to pack layers of warm clothing, a windproof and waterproof jacket, a comfortable backpack, durable hiking shoes, a hat or scarf, sunscreen, a first aid kit, water and snacks, and an extra pair of socks.
It's important to remember that you're also going to need to acquire two permits, the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit and the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit.
Additionally, you may want to bring trekking poles for extra stability and a sleeping bag for camping overnight. If you're planning on taking photos during the hike, be sure to bring a digital camera or smartphone with plenty of battery life. Finally, don't forget to bring your sense of adventure as you embark on this incredible journey!
How Difficult is the Hike?
The Everest Circuit hike is certainly not for the faint of heart. The trail involves traversing high elevations, with some sections reaching up to 5,000 meters. This means that you must be physically fit and acclimated to the high altitude in order to successfully complete the trek. The hike also takes around 3 weeks, so endurance is key.
You should be prepared to face difficult terrains such as steep ascents, rocky paths, and mud. While it is not necessary to have a high level of physical fitness, having a good level of endurance and a knowledge of proper hiking techniques will greatly improve your chances of success.
What are the Highlights of the Hike?
The Everest Circuit hike is one of the most rewarding hikes in the world. This epic trek takes you through the dramatic mountain landscape of the Khumbu region, including stunning views of some of the highest peaks in the world. You'll likely pass over three high-altitude passes: Renjo La Pass (5360m), Cho La Pass (5420m), and Kongma La Pass (5535m) depending on the company you use.
You’ll get to see Mt. Everest (8,848m/29,028ft) and other 8,000m-plus peaks:
Lhotse (8,516m/27,940ft)
Cho Oyu (8,188m/26,864ft)
Makalu (8,463m/27,766ft)
You're also going to see Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and more. The trek also takes you to legendary high-altitude lakes offering a breathtaking array of turquoise-blue waters framed by snow-capped mountains.
Along the way, you’ll pass through picturesque villages and towns where you’ll be able to soak up local culture and try delicious traditional food. With such a variety of landscapes and experiences, it’s no wonder the Everest Circuit hike is so popular among trekkers!