Hi! I’m Richard, and welcome to my Asia Hikelopedia.
Here I hope to introduce to you some of the best and most scenic Asian hiking trails and walks from around this vast continent.
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And while I’m not out on the trails, I’ll also be dipping my feet into the local culture, sampling the food,
and meeting the wildlife of all the places I visit.
Everest Basecamp
The 12-day, roughly 130km slog to Everest Base Camp from Lukla and back has become a bucket-list experience for many people in recent years.
Myself and my good friend Hugo were lucky enough to complete this once-in-a-lifetime trip back in April 2018 - before I decided to start my hiking channel.
This video is the story of our entire trip, from booking to basecamp and back, cobbled together from the video and photos that we took before, during and after our Nepalese odyssey.
The Trail
The Everest Base Camp trek is not difficult, but it is most definitely gruelling. At a total of 12 days (including two acclimatisation/rest days) and around 130km in length it is a test of stamina more than anything else.
Throw in the altitude and that is what distinguishes EBC from most other multi-day hikes. Not everyone can handle the altitude and may need to quit or spend extra days acclimatising (it helps.)
Having a guide and/or porter is one way to make the trek easier and also contribute to the local economy although it is possible to do it by yourself.
Solo hikers will need to organise flights and permits on their own (which means you will need to spend more time in Kathmandu before the trek. This is in itself is not a bad thing as it is a great place.
For less than experienced trekkers I would recommend having both a porter and a guide, you will learn more about the culture, geography and all things Nepalese while also making lifelong friends in the region. I am still regularly in touch with the people from my hike.
For information on what you’ll need please watch my video here.
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Travel Logistics
From Kathmandu, most people take a short plane ride to Lukla where the trek begins. Often, if the weather is bad or you’re in a rush people will upgrade to a helicopter (it costs around US$250-$300 one way as opposed to around $170 for the flight.)
Those on a budget or those scared of flying can take the bus.
Services run from Kathmandu to Jiri, and from there it is a 5-6 day trek to Lukla and the start of the more popular trek.
For full service treks please contact Himalaya Guide Nepal.
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Drones
Drones are not allowed in Sagamartha National Park and the Everest region.