Trekking to Everest Base Camp in Nepal or K2 Base Camp in Pakistan not only lets you stand at the base of the world’s tallest or second tallest peak– but both are among the most epic trekking routes on earth.
However, they differ significantly in terms of difficulty, remoteness, altitude, and infrastructure. After trekking to both base camps, I’ve written this comprehensive comparison to help you the trek that aligns with your fitness level and adventure goals.
Key Differences
| EBC | K2 BC | |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Nepal Himalayas (Khumbu) | Pakistan (Karakoram) |
| Highest point | Kala Patthar (5,545 m / 18,192 ft) | Gondogoro La (5,585 m / 18,323 ft) |
| Duration | 12-14 days | 14-21 days |
| Difficulty | Moderate to challenging | Challenging to strenuous |
| Accommodation | Teahouse lodges | Camping / tents |
| Culture | Sherpa culture & Buddhist monasteries | Balti culture & remote cultural encounters |
| Cost | $1,500-$3,500 | $2,500-$4,500 |
| Best Time | Pre-monsoon (March-May) & post-monsoon (September-November) | Summer (June-August) |
| Popularity | Very popular; trails can be crowded in peak seasons | Fewer trekkers but gaining popularity |
The Mountain Flight
Both the Everest Base Camp and K2 Base Camp treks involve a flight into the mountains. They usually depart from their capital cities (Kathmandu or Islamabad). Both are incredibly scenic but vary greatly.
Everest Base Camp
To begin trekking to EBC, you’ll fly into the mountain village of Lukla (2,860 m). This is one of the world’s most notorious airports with an incredibly short runway hanging onto the slopes of a mountain. The planes are small fixed-wing propeller planes accommodating around 20 passengers.
The views along the way are breathtaking and after taking this flight 5 times now I still get an adrenaline kick! From Lukla, you can begin trekking immediately toward the next village or sleep in a comfortable teahouse near the airport.
Tip: While the flight is great, you won't see Everest or any big peaks on the flight to Lukla. Instead, consider the affordable day trip Everest mountain flights from Kathmandu on either side of your trek.
K2 Base Camp
Unlike the Everest Base Camp flight to Namche Bazaar, trekkers heading to K2 Base Camp will start their journey with a commercial jetliner flight to the largest city of Baltistan, Skardu (2,228 m). Although not as heart-racing, the flight is equally scenic and offers a chance to fly directly past Nanga Parbat (8,128 m), the world’s ninth-tallest mountain.
After a nail-biting 180-degree maneuver passing peaks and rocky outcrops, the flight lands in a Mars-like glacial valley surrounded by rocky mountains on all sides.
While trekkers will begin hiking directly after their flight on the EBC trail, those landing in Skardu for the K2 Base Camp trek will still need to take a 6+ hour bumpy jeep ride to Askole (usually the following day) to begin the trek.
Cost
The cost of trekking to either Everest Base Camp or K2 Base Camp varies significantly due to differences in logistics, infrastructure, and services available along the routes.
Everest Base Camp is generally more affordable and offers the flexibility of teahouse accommodations and optional guides. K2 Base Camp requires a larger budget due to mandatory guides, camping logistics, and a more remote route.
Everest Base Camp
The cost of trekking to Everest Base Camp typically ranges from $1,500 to $3,500 per person. This price usually includes:
- Permits and Fees: You'll need a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and Sagarmatha National Park entry permit.
- Accommodation: Along the EBC trail, numerous teahouses offer basic lodging at affordable rates. This network allows for flexibility and comfort without the need for camping gear or to pay porters to carry your tents.
- Meals: Teahouses provide meals, with prices increasing as you ascend. Budgeting for food is straightforward since options are readily available.
- Guides and Porters: Hiring a guide or porter is optional but recommended for safety and cultural insights.
- Transportation: The scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (and back) is a significant part of the cost but is included in most trekking packages.
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K2 Base Camp
The trek to K2 Base Camp is more expensive, with costs ranging from $2,500 to $4,500 per person. Higher expenses are due to the remote nature and lack of infrastructure on the K2 trek.
- Permits and Regulations: Multiple permits are required, including a trekking permit, military clearance, and sometimes a restricted area permit.
- Accommodation: Unlike the EBC trail, there are no teahouses. Trekkers must camp every night, necessitating paying porters to carry tents and camping equipment. This is provided by the expedition company.
- Meals: All food supplies must be carried in and the expedition must pay a a kitchen and support team since there are no places to purchase meals along the route.
- Guides and Porters: Hiring a licensed guide is mandatory, and a team of porters is essential to carry equipment and supplies.
- Transportation: The journey includes a domestic flight from Islamabad to Skardu and a rugged jeep ride to the trailhead in Askole.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is one of the main differences between the Everest Base Camp and K2 Base Camp treks.
The Everest trek offers a network of teahouses providing basic lodging and meals, while the K2 trek requires trekkers to camp every night because there are no permanent settlements or accommodations along the trail.
Everest Base Camp
Along the Everest Base Camp trail, you'll find numerous teahouses and lodges in every village along the route. These establishments are run by local families and offer:
- Rooms: Simple private or twin-share rooms equipped with beds, mattresses, blankets, and pillows. They are basic but provide shelter and a comfortable place to rest after a day of trekking.
- Dining: Communal dining halls where hot meals are served and a fireplace is on. Menus often include a variety of dishes ranging from traditional Nepali and Sherpa cuisine to international favorites like pasta and pancakes.
- Facilities: Shared bathrooms with squat or Western-style toilets. Hot showers are usually available for an extra fee, though the availability decreases and the cost increases as you ascend to higher altitudes.
- Amenities: Some teahouses offer electricity for charging devices (typically for a small fee) and limited Wi-Fi access. Common areas provide opportunities to relax and socialize with other trekkers.
Tip: Staying in teahouses allows trekkers to travel light since there's no need to carry camping equipment, sleeping bags, etc. It also offers a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture and support the communities along the trail.
K2 Base Camp
The K2 Base Camp trek is a remote expedition where camping is the only accommodation option due to the absence of villages and teahouses along the route. Expedition teams must be self-sufficient, and accommodations are arranged as part of an organized trekking package, which includes:
- Tents: High-quality, durable tents are provided by the expedition company. You'll typically share a tent with one other person, but solo tents may be available for a fee.
- Camp Setup: A support team consisting of guides, porters, cooks, and mules is responsible for transporting gear and setting up camp each day. Campsites are predetermined and are situated in the safest and most practical locations along the Baltoro Glacier.
- Facilities: Expedition camps are equipped with communal dining tents and kitchen tents. Toilet tents (usually into a bag or ditch) are used instead of permanent facilities. There are no shower facilities; you usually make do with basic washing using bowls of warm water provided by the staff.
- Meals: A dedicated kitchen crew prepares all meals. Despite the remote conditions, the food was often hearty, nutritious, and delicious.
- Amenities: Since there are no permanent structures, amenities are minimal. There is no access to electricity or Wi-Fi, so charging devices require portable power banks, solar chargers, or generators if your expedition group brings one.
Tip: Camping every night adds to the adventure and the sense of being in a truly remote wilderness. However, prepare for colder nights, limited facilities, and the need for a good sleeping bag and insulating gear.
Altitude
Both the EBC trek and K2 Base Camp trek reach high elevations above 5,000 m. However, on both trekking itineraries, the highest point is not the base camp itself. Both acclimatization profiles are gradual and reputable guides will utilize rest/acclimatization days to get trekkers used to the higher altitudes.
Everest Base Camp
The Everest Base Camp trek reaches a maximum elevation of 5,545 meters (18,192 ft) at Kala Patthar, with the base camp situated at 5,364 meters (17,598 ft). The ascent is gradual, allowing trekkers to acclimatize effectively.
- Starting Point: The trek begins at Lukla (2,860 meters / 9,383 ft).
- Ascent Profile: Over 8-12 days, trekkers steadily ascend, with daily elevation gains of around 300-500 meters.
- Acclimatization Days: Itineraries usually include scheduled acclimatization days in either Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters / 11,286 ft) on day 2 or 3, and Dingboche (4,410 meters / 14,469 ft) on day 5 or 6.
- Total Ascent Days: Approximately 8 days to reach EBC
K2 Base Camp
The K2 Base Camp trek reaches an elevation of 4,950 meters (16,240 ft) at the base camp, or 5,600 meters (18,323 ft) if crossing the Gondogoro La Pass. The ascent is longer and equally gradual.
- Starting Point: The journey begins at Askole (3,050 meters / 10,007 ft).
- Ascent Profile: Steady ascent over 9-12 days, with daily elevation gains of around 200-500 meters.
- Acclimatization Days: Itineraries usually include a scheduled acclimatization day at Urdukas (4,061 meters / 13,323 ft) on and at Concordia (4,600 meters / 15,091 ft) on day 11.
- Total Ascent Days: Approximately 9-10 days to reach K2 Base Camp.
Terrain & Landscapes
The terrains and landscapes of the Everest Base Camp and K2 Base Camp treks differ significantly. The EBC trek follows established routes, winding through villages and crossing suspension bridges. The K2 trek on the other hand, is much more remote, wild, and rugged. For the majority of the trek to K2 Base Camp, you'll be walking on the uneven, rocky, and icy Baltoro Glacier.
Both treks provide stunning views of some of the world's highest peaks. However, you cannot see Everest from Everest Base Camp, while on the K2 Base Camp Trek, you'll have direct views of K2 at base camp and from your tent at Concordia.
Everest Base Camp
The Everest Base Camp trek follows a well-established trail that winds through numerous Sherpa villages. Trekkers often walk on maintained paths and cross several suspension bridges adorned with prayer flags over deep gorges and rivers.
- Trail Conditions: The paths are well-trodden and marked for straightforward navigation. The terrain includes gentle inclines and declines, with some steeper sections as you ascend higher.
- Villages and Culture: You'll pass through bustling villages like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche for opportunities to interact with locals and experience Sherpa culture firsthand.
- Landscapes: The scenery is diverse, starting with lush forests of pine and rhododendrons, progressing to alpine meadows, and eventually to rocky, glacial moraines near base camp. Panoramic views of peaks like Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Mount Everest are visible along the way.
- Peaks: Along the way you'll see notable peaks like Mount Everest (8,848 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), and Makalu (8,485 m), as well as Nuptse (7,861 m), Pumori (7,161 m), and Ama Dablam (6,812 m).
Tip: An excellent alternative to the Everest Base Camp Trek is the Three Passes Trek with an included side-trip to EBC. This is my favorite trek in the Khumbu and includes scaling amazing high passes and viewpoints such as Kongma La (5,545 m), Cho La (5,420 m), Renjo La (5,360 m), Chhukung Ri (5,546 m), and Gokyo Ri (5,360 m).
K2 Base Camp
The K2 Base Camp trek is far more remote and wild. Trekkers spend a significant portion of the journey walking on the Baltoro Glacier, one of the world's longest non-polar glaciers which has ice as deep as 171 meters in some sections.
- Trail Conditions: The terrain is rugged and challenging, with rocky and uneven surfaces. Walking on the glacier involves navigating over rocks, ice, and sometimes snow, which is quite physically demanding due to constant undulations.
- Isolation: Unlike the Everest trek, there are no villages or permanent settlements after the starting point in Askole. This means you'll be deep in a true wilderness experience with few signs of human habitation besides a couple of army camps.
- Landscapes: The trek offers dramatic views of towering peaks over 7,000 and 8,000 meters, including K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrum massif. The Baltoro Glacier's sheer scale and the surrounding granite spires like the Trango Towers make this one of the most picturesque mountain scenes on earth.
- Peaks: You'll get amazing views of K2 (8,611 m), Broad Peak (8,051 m), Gasherbrum I (8,080 m), and Gasherbrum II (8,035 m). Additionally, numerous 7,000-meter peaks like Masherbrum (7,821 m) and Chogolisa (7,668 m), and the Trango Towers (up to 6,286 m) are visible.
Did you know?: Although Everest is higher than K2, Concordia (known as the Throne Room of the Gods) is smack-bang in the middle of the highest density of high mountains anywhere on earth, surrounded by four 8,000 m peaks and four 7,000 m peaks.
Length & Difficulty
The length and difficulty of the Everest Base Camp and K2 Base Camp treks differ. The EBC trek is shorter and generally more accessible, making it suitable for trekkers with moderate experience. In contrast, the K2 Base Camp trek is longer, more demanding, and requires a higher level of physical fitness and endurance due to its remoteness and challenging terrain.
Everest Base Camp
The Everest Base Camp trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in the world, known for its well-established trails and supportive infrastructure. The standard EBC trek takes 12 days, including two acclimatization days. The total trekking distance is approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles) round trip.
- Physical Demands: Daily hikes range from 5 to 7 hours, covering distances of 10 to 15 kilometers. The terrain includes gradual ascents and descents with some steep sections, especially as you approach higher altitudes.
- Trail Conditions: Well-marked and maintained trails make navigation straightforward. The presence of teahouses allows you to carry lighter packs if you're not using porters.
- Technical Skills: No technical climbing skills are required. The trek is non-technical and no special equipment is required.
K2 Base Camp
The K2 Base Camp trek is renowned for its remoteness and the raw adventure it offers. This is what appealed to me, the challenge and raw experience. The trek typically takes 15 to 20 days, including more transport involved than the EBC.
The length depends on the itinerary and whether you include the crossing of the Gondogoro La Pass. The total trekking distance is approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) round trip.
- Physical Demands: Expect 6 to 8 hours of trekking per day, with some longer ones. The terrain is rugged, and walking on the uneven surface of the Baltoro Glacier adds to the physical strain.
- Trail Conditions: The paths are unmarked and involve navigating rocky moraines, ice, and snow. The lack of infrastructure means the need for more porters and mules.
- Technical Skills: Reaching K2 Base Camp doesn't require technical climbing skills but crossing the Gondogoro La is a "semi-technical pass. This involves using crampons and fixed ropes. Prior experience on entry-level mountaineering expeditions like Mera Peak or Island Peak will help but is not essential (many people on our trip had never used crampons before).
Cultural Experiences
The cultural experiences on the Everest Base Camp and K2 Base Camp treks differ greatly due to the distinct regions and communities you encounter. The EBC trek offers rich interactions with the Sherpa people and exposure to Tibetan Buddhist traditions. In contrast, the K2 trek provides glimpses into the lives of the Balti people of Northern Pakistan, with fewer cultural touchpoints due to the trek's remoteness.
Everest Base Camp
The Everest Base Camp trek is as much a cultural journey as it is a physical one. The trail passes through numerous Sherpa villages while staying at local tea houses. This allows trekkers to immerse themselves in the local way of life.
The Sherpa people are renowned for their mountaineering skills and warm hospitality. As we trekked through villages like Namche Bazaar, Khumjung, and Pangboche, we had opportunities to interact with locals, visit homes, and learn about their traditions and daily activities.
Additionally, Tibetan Buddhism is integral to Sherpa culture. Along the trek, you'll encounter several monasteries and gompas (Buddhist temples), such as the famous Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region, which I highly recommend visiting.
Teahouses serve traditional Nepali and Sherpa dishes like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), and Sherpa stew. You'll share meals in communal dining halls with other trekkers, porters, guides, and locals.
K2 Base Camp Trek
The K2 Base Camp trek offers more limited but unique cultural interactions primarily at the beginning of the journey and with your porter and guide team.
The Balti people inhabit the Baltistan region of northern Pakistan. In Skardu and the village of Askole, the last inhabited settlement before you enter the wilderness, you can observe Balti customs and way of life.
Unlike the Buddhist Sherpas, the Balti people practice Islam, predominantly Shia. While mosques and religious practices are less prominent along the trek due to the lack of settlements, you may notice cultural elements in Skardu and Askole, and of course in Islamabad at the start and end of the trek.
The Balti language is of Tibetan origin, and the people have a rich heritage blending Tibetan and Islamic influences. Traditional music, dance, and festivals are part of their cultural fabric, though you're less likely to witness these firsthand due to the remoteness of the trek.
But make sure to speak to your porters and guides. Your support team are happy to joke around, engage, and offer insight into their lives, challenges, and the role they play in mountain expeditions.
Meals are prepared by the expedition's kitchen staff. While the food is hearty and designed to meet the nutritional needs of trekkers, it will likely be Western-influenced but include local flavors and ingredients.
Visas & Permits
Both treks require specific documentation but the processes and requirements differ between Nepal and Pakistan.
A general overview is that Pakistan is much more bureaucractic and complicated. However all visas, fees, and permits are handled by the expedition company (you cannot trek independently).
In Nepal, your guide can and usually do organize your permits but this is also possible to obtain independently once you start trekking.
To be clear: While Nepal has made independent trekking forbidden, the truth is that you still can trek independently to Everest Base Camp. That is because the Khumbu Rural Municipality, who control the area, has overruled this law. However other treks in Nepal like the Manaslu Circuit or the Annapurna Circuit now require a guide.
Everest Base Camp
Travelers heading to Everest Base Camp in Nepal can enter with a regular tourist visa (usually 15, 30, or 90 days with a fee payable on arrival). There are trekking permit requirements but unlike the K2 Base Camp Trek, none need to be arranged ahead of time. This means you can fly into Lukla and begin trekking on a tourist visa and you no longer need to arrange permits in Kathmandu.
- Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit - NPR 2,000 in Lukla
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit- NPR 3,000 from at the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Gate in Monjo.
K2 Base Camp
Traveling to K2 Base Camp in Pakistan involves more complex visa and permit requirements due to the region's sensitive nature. In the Karakoram, you can't just arrive and begin trekking like you can on the EBC. Specifically, you need a Letter of Invitation (LOI) and a Trekking and Mountaineering Visa to enter the country. Luckily this should all be managed by your trekking company.
There are also several permits and entrance fees that are changing all the time, so I won't include a price (they'll change by the time you go). An overview of the permits handled by your trekking company includes:
- Karakoram National Park (CKNP) Entry Fee
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) - a special security clearance from the Ministry of Interior
- Trekking Permit (Restricted Area Permit) - permission to enter restricted zones in the Karakoram region
The Verdict
Both the Everest Base Camp and K2 Base Camp treks offer incredible, once-in-a-lifetime experiences and after doing both treks, I have high opinions of both. That said, they do cater to different types of adventurers.
Why Choose EBC?
If you’re seeking a blend of moderately challenging trekking with deep cultural immersion into Sherpa Buddhist culture, and prefer the comfort of teahouse accommodations along well-established trails, the Everest Base Camp trek is an excellent choice.
It’s more accessible, with solid infrastructure and with the opportunity to witness amazing Himalayan landscapes, including the tallest mountain on earth.
Why Choose K2 BC?
If you crave a more remote and rugged adventure that feels more like an expedition than a "hike", the K2 Base Camp trek is the way to go.
This trek demands a higher level of physical fitness and mental endurance but takes you through some of the most spectacular and isolated mountain scenery on earth. While Everest is higher, the mountain vistas on the K2 trek are more beautiful in my opinion.
The untamed beauty of the Karakoram, coupled with the challenge of camping in some of the most beautiful but harsh conditions, makes this a will appeal to seasoned trekkers and those seeking a true wilderness experience.
If you ask me, after doing both, I preferred the K2 Base Camp trek over the Everest Base Camp Trek for its ruggedness, remoteness, beautiful campsites, and unbelievable scenery. That said, I've been back to the Khumbu countless times for other treks and expeditions and you cannot beat the cultural experience there.
Remember: I've partnered with my favorite trekking companies in Nepal (Himalayan Masters) and Pakistan (Epic Expeditions) to offer you 5% off either trek using my code OLLY5 at checkout.