Day 12: Gorak Shep → Everest Base Camp | Overnight at the Base of the Mother of the World

Start altitude: 16,942 ft (5,164 m) Gorak Shep
Highest point: 17,598 ft (5,364 m)
End altitude: 17,598 ft (5,364 m) EBC
Distance: ~1.4 miles (2.3 km) one way
Estimated walking time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours

After completing the sunrise climb to Kala Patthar and returning to Gorak Shep for breakfast, we prepare for the final leg of the trek.

We walk onward to Everest Base Camp. This is a one-way journey, with an overnight stay at Base Camp at the foot of Chomolungma (The Mother of the World).

The route takes us fully onto the Khumbu Glacier, crossing ancient ice and glacial moraine that have existed for millions of years. The landscape is raw, vast, and otherworldly. It can feel as though we have stepped onto a different planet.

Movement here is slow and deliberate. It is normal to feel slightly unsteady as the altitude makes itself known. Hydration and steady energy are essential, even if thirst or appetite feels reduced. Discipline with water is critical today.

We’ll stop on the side of the rocks for a couple of 15-minute breaks. We’ll be eating our chewy’s and protein bars. We’ll get provided with hot water to mix with our termos

Arriving at Everest Base Camp is a rare and extraordinary moment. Spending the night here is something very few people ever experience. This is a place of humility, awe, and deep presence. We will take time to arrive fully, reflect, and honor the journey and the lives, dreams, and intentions we carry with us.

At the main entrance to Everest Base Camp, a large gathering of prayer flags marks the arrival. It’s a natural place to pause, leave our flags, and take a quiet moment with our intentions

As we move deeper into Base Camp, the landscape begins to resemble a small, temporary city, with expedition tents spread across the glacier. We’ll locate our camp, settle in, and take a gentle walk around the area to explore, orient ourselves, and fully arrive.

This time is focused on grounding, taking in the scale of the place, and settling into the experience of being here.

There is an altitude clinic at Base Camp. I’m scheduling a final check-up for those interested.

The evening is centered on warmth, rest, and quiet downtime beneath the surrounding peaks. For those who feel social and a little chattier, there may be a brief opportunity to mingle with other expeditions, many of whom will be just beginning their journeys and at different stages of their trek.

We’ll have our final dinner and potentially head to bed by 8pm.