How Much Cash You Need for Everest Base Camp Trek – A Complete Guide
The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most iconic adventures in the world, drawing thousands of trekkers to the Khumbu region of Nepal each year. But before lacing up your boots, it’s essential to know how much cash you need for Everest Base Camp Trek.
From permits and flights to food, accommodation, and unexpected expenses, careful budget planning can make or break your experience. In remote Himalayan areas, cash is still king, and relying on ATMs or cards can leave you stranded without funds.
At We Ramblers, we ensure every trekker is accompanied by a certified guide, making your journey not only safe but also seamless in terms of logistics and budgeting. Here’s your complete breakdown of costs so you can trek with confidence.
Understanding the Everest Base Camp Trek Costs
The total cost of an Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek typically ranges between USD 1,200–2,000 per person, depending on the season, trek duration, and comfort level. This price includes most essentials but knowing the breakdown helps you carry the right amount of Nepalese Rupees (NPR) for on-the-go expenses.
Key cost factors include:
- Permits: Sagarmatha National Park Permit (NPR 3,000) and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit (NPR 2,000).
- Flights: Kathmandu–Lukla flight ticket price ranges from USD 180–220 one way.
- Accommodation: Teahouses cost NPR 500–1,000 per night.
- Food: Meals range from NPR 500–1,000 per dish, increasing with altitude.
- Guide & porter fees: Typically USD 25–30/day for guides and USD 20–25/day for porters.
- Gear rental: Extra if you don’t own trekking gear.
- Travel insurance: Crucial for high-altitude trekking.
Daily Cash Requirement on the EBC Trek
Most trekkers should budget around USD 25–40 (NPR 3,000–5,000) per day for personal expenses, excluding your pre-paid package.
Typical daily expenses:
- Accommodation: NPR 500–1,000
- Meals (3 per day): NPR 1,500–2,500
- Snacks: NPR 300–500
- Hot shower: NPR 300–500
- Charging electronics: NPR 200–400
- Wi-Fi cards: NPR 500–800
The cost of goods increases dramatically with altitude. For example, a bottle of water in Lukla might cost NPR 100, but in Gorak Shep it can be NPR 400 or more due to porter transport.
Cash vs card:
While Namche Bazaar offers limited ATM access, they may run out of cash or be out of service. Beyond Namche, cash is the only reliable payment method. Carry small denominations for ease.
Popular stops along the trail: Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Gorak Shep are the main places you’ll spend cash.
Cash Needed for Permits and Flights During EBC Trek
Two main permits are required for the EBC trek:
- Sagarmatha National Park Permit – NPR 3,000 for foreigners
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit – NPR 2,000
Both can be arranged by We Ramblers before your trek.
For flights, the Kathmandu–Lukla round trip costs USD 360–440, and booking early is essential, especially in peak seasons (spring and autumn).
Including these costs in your budget ensures you’re not caught off guard, and having them pre-arranged by your trekking company saves you time.
Extra Cash for Emergencies & Souvenirs
Even with a well-planned budget, it’s wise to carry USD 100–200 extra for unexpected situations. This could cover:
- Extra rest days due to weather delays.
- Medical needs or altitude-related issues.
- Gear replacement or repair.
- Last-minute transportation changes.
For souvenirs, Namche Bazaar offers trekking mementos, Sherpa handicrafts, and Himalayan-themed gear. Budget an extra NPR 2,000–5,000 if you plan on shopping.
Where & How to Exchange Currency for EBC Trek
It’s best to exchange money in Kathmandu before heading to Lukla. The Thamel area has numerous money changers with competitive rates. Banks also offer exchange services, but they may require additional paperwork.
ATM access:
- Namche Bazaar has a couple of ATMs, but they are unreliable.
- Beyond Namche, there are no ATMs.
- ATMs in Kathmandu often have withdrawal limits of NPR 35,000–40,000 per transaction.
Pro tip: Carry crisp USD bills if you’re bringing foreign currency, as damaged notes are often rejected.
Why Choose We Ramblers for Your Everest Base Camp Trek
At We Ramblers, we believe that the Everest Base Camp Trek should be more than just a bucket-list item; it should be an unforgettable, well-supported Himalayan adventure. Our certified guides are not only highly experienced in navigating the Khumbu region, but also trained in high-altitude safety, first aid, and cultural interpretation. This ensures you trek confidently, knowing your well-being is our top priority.
We take care of all permits, including the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit, as well as your Kathmandu–Lukla flights, so you can skip the paperwork and focus on the experience. Our Everest Base Camp trek packages include comfortable teahouse accommodations, nutritious meals, and porter support to lighten your load, letting you enjoy the trail stress-free.
With transparent pricing and no hidden costs, you know exactly how much you’re spending before you set foot on the trail. We also offer custom itineraries for those who want extra acclimatization days, side trips, or cultural experiences. By choosing We Ramblers, you’re supporting a company committed to responsible tourism, sustainability, and empowering local communities.
Join us, and let’s make your journey to Everest Base Camp truly extraordinary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About EBC Trek Packages and Cash Requirements
1. How much does it cost to trek Everest Base Camp?
The average cost ranges from USD 1,200–2,000 per person, including permits, flights, guide & porter fees, accommodation, and meals.
2. Do you need cash for Everest Base Camp?
Yes. Cash is essential for teahouse stays, meals, snacks, and extras beyond Namche Bazaar, where card payments and ATMs are not available.
3. Is food expensive on the Everest Base Camp Trek?
Food becomes more expensive with altitude. Expect to pay NPR 500–1,000 per meal, with prices highest in remote villages like Gorak Shep.
4. How much money should I carry to Nepal for trekking?
For the EBC trek, bring at least USD 300–400 in cash for on-the-trail expenses, in addition to your prepaid trekking package.
5. Can I pay by card during the EBC trek?
Cards are rarely accepted beyond Namche Bazaar. Always carry cash in Nepalese Rupees for reliability.
