Standing at the foot of Mount Everest, the earth's highest peak, your heart will start thumping with a spirit of adventure and excitement for a race unlike any other—the Everest Marathon, the world's highest.
This is more than just a race, it is a battle of your own body against you and nature as it gasps for oxygen. Moving through the Khumbu valley, tracing the path once used by the historical trek of Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, you will run towards Everest.
Not just the destination, the journey in itself is a voyage while you push your limits and conquer your inner Everest. You will be running with people around the globe where not only speed and personal bests matter but also your perception and self-consciousness.
Completing this marathon will not only give you a lifetime sense of accomplishment, but it will also transform your physical and mental strength. It is a connection to nature.
The Everest Highest Marathon Trek is a grueling 42.195 kilometers that takes place at Everest Base Camp. It requires proper training, acclimatization, and a healthy amount of respect for the mountains themselves. If you are up for this challenge, Everest awaits you. Ready to redefine running on air?
Trip Itinerary
Day 01
As you step into Kathmandu, you will already sense adventure in its air. Our representatives of Pure Adventure Nepal will be ready to receive and welcome you at Tribhuwan International Airport. You will be transferred to your Hotel. For the rest of the day, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant cities of Kathmandu. You will be spending your day in Kathmandu and preparing yourself for the adventure the next day.
Day 02
On the following day, you will head towards Lukla, the gateway of the Everest region. This is a short flight of 30 minutes. Once you stride to Lukla, your official trekking journey begins on this day. You will be heading towards Phakding which is a small Sherpa village. In the middle of a rhododendron forest, you will spend overnight at Phakding.
Day 03
After a fulfilling breakfast at Phakding, the trail winds through pine and rhododendron forests, revealing glimpses of Everest and Thamserku. You will cross the Dudh Koshi River with a flimsy suspension bridge. You will reach the Sherpa Capital, Namche. On the hilltop, you will surpass the famous Tengboche Monastery and explore the Himalayan culture.
Day 04
This is the resting day. You will be adapting to the environment and altitude. You can explore the Namche surroundings. To excite the day you can have a short hike to Thamo village for the views of Everest. Visit the Everest View Hotel and wander through the Khumjung village and the famous Yeti Skull Monastery.
Day 05
You will start trekking after gathering yourself in Namche Bazar for 5 to 6 hours. You will witness the panorama of Ama Dablam. Crossing the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge you will finally reach Tengboche Monastery which is the spiritual gem of the Himalayas. There are colorful prayer flags and spend your night Tengboche. You will have a view of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Khangtega, Thamserku, Kwangde, and Amadablam.
Day 06
This morning, you will follow the Imjatse River and head uphill unless you reach Pangboche Village. This is the last permanent village before Dingboche. You will stop at Samara village for lunch. You will have some great panoramic mountain views from Dingboche. Dingboche is a quiet village with yak pasture. You will rest here for the night.
Day 07
On this day, you will have a short trek to Chuukung from where you will have some of the most fascinating views of snow-capped Mt. Makalu in the Eastern part. If you have free time for the rest of the day, you can consider hiking Chhukung Ri which has an alluring vista of mountains and will help you to acclimatize.
Day 08
Before sunrise, walk through the rocky trail beneath Kongma-La Pass and Kongma Peak also known as Mera Peak. Kongma-La Pass lies between Mt. Nuptse, Mohare, and Pokalde peaks. Through a hard climb to the Khumbu Glacier, you will arrive at Lobuche to stay overnight at a lodge.
Day 09
Today, you will be crossing the Khumbu Glacier. The trail gets progressively steeper and closer to the Everest. Gorak Shep is the last permanent settlement before the Everest Base Camp. On the Northern side, you will see the mighty Mt. Pumori, Mahalangur, Lingtren, Khumbutse, and Nuptse. You will spend your night here.
Day 10
After a steep ascend to the Changri Glacier, you will be heading to Everest Base Camp. well, this is the most exciting and anticipated day of your trek. You will have a hike to the Everest Base Camp and once you reach there you can be busy capturing pictures and reflecting upon your journey.
Day 11
Finally! The day of the Marathon arrives. You will be starting this race early morning. Running through the spectacular Khumbu Valley you will witness a stunning sunrise while you breathe through the thin air. You will have one of the most surreal experiences here.
Day 12
As you trace down to your previous steps, you will sense some familiar landscapes and memories, as you reach Namche Bazar you will cherish the memories you made and be proud of your accomplishments.
Day 13
On this day, you will follow the previous trail back to Phakding. Passing through the lush green pine land and vibrant rhododendron forest, you will reach Phakding in no time. For the rest time, you can take your time to explore Phakding.
Day 14
As you start your early morning trek to Lukla, you will reach Phakding for your final trekking day. The spare time left will help you stroll around the village and the countryside. This is the time to pat yourself as you complete the journey.
Day 15
Taking an early morning scenic flight from Lukla Airport to Kathmandu will give you the final view of the Himalayas. As you enjoy a farewell meal with your trekking companions you can share your challenges. P.S. Don’t forget to take a window seat.
Day 16
This is your spare day in Kathmandu to stroll around. Use this time to wander around the bustling streets of the Valley. Also, you can visit the UNESCO-listed sites including the Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath, Patan Durbar Square, and many more. Take pictures and make memories. Shop around to take a memory of Nepal to your homeland.
Day 17
It's time to say goodbye. As you do your packing early morning, you will have a fulfilling breakfast. You will be transferred to Tribhuwan International Airport. Bid farewell to the Land of Himalayas, carrying with you a heart full of adventure and story that will continue to inspire you forever.
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Airport pickup and drop at Tribhuwan International Airport
Tourist bus from Kathmandu
3-star Hotel stays at Kathmandu night stay in twin sharing
Lodging and Tea house accommodation
Licensed Trek Guide with good spoken English plus assistant leader each for a group of four
A porter sharing for two trekkers each on the route
Salary and Insurance Cost of Staff
All necessary paperwork and permits (TIMS/ Conservation Fee).
Emergency medical kit and local taxes
What not to Expect
International Flight and Nepal VISA fees
Travel Insurance
Extra activities cost not planned within the Itinerary
Hard or Soft Drinks and snacks
Tips for Staff (Trekking Guide, Assistant, and Porter)
Essential packing Equipment
Extra cost for booking domestic flight other than planned
Gears and Equipments
Clothing
Waterproof jackets and pants
Sweaters and down jackets
Lightweight trousers
Hiking shirts- long-sleeved
Hooded raincoat and Fleece jacket
Innerwears
Lightweight and heavyweight winter gloves
Sun hat or scarf; Money belt; Cotton headscarf, bandana
Winter hat or insulating hat
Personal accessories
Headlights and extra batteries
Face and body wipes
Sunscreen and sunglasses with UV protection
Money
Watch
Cell phone and camera
Toiletries
Medium-drying towels
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Washing kits, talcum powder, and toilet paper
Degradable soap and shampoo
Deodorant floss, nail clippers, and mirror
Footwears
Trekking Boots
A pair of sports shoes
Heavy wool and light socks
Extra items
First aid kit
Passport-sized photos and passport photocopies
Binoculars
Personal medications
1 swiss type knife
Sleeping bags and sheets,
Rucksack, backpack, and a small day pack
Water bottle
Water purification tablet solution
Frequently asked questions
The Everest Marathon is generally held in late May or early June.
The Everest Marathon is generally held in late May or early June.
The cost typically depends upon the tour operator however, in general, it ranges from 4000 USD to 10,000 USD which includes race entry, accommodations, meals, transportation, and guides.
All runners of every age and ability can participate in the Everest Marathon. However, it is essential to be in excellent physical condition and have an experience of running at high altitude.
There is no specific training, however, runners will need to train for at least 6-12 before the race.
The Everest Marathon is considered as one of the most challenging marathons in the world. You will be facing high altitude, cold weather, rough terrains, and high distances throughout the race.