The Mount Everest Marathon is the world’s highest altitude race, held annually in Nepal. Mount Everest marathon is more than just a competition and it’s a once in a lifetime adventure. If you’re ready for the ultimate high altitude challenge, this race belongs on your bucket list.
Starting at Everest Base Camp (5,364m), is the legendary gateway for climbers, it offers an unparalleled adventure through the heart of the Himalayas. Runners experience the raw beauty of towering peaks, deep valleys, and glacial landscapes, making it one of the most exhilarating endurance races on Earth.
This 42.195 kilometers is a Everest full marathon course winds through the rugged Khumbu Valley, culminating in Namche Bazaar (3,446m). Along the way, participants tackle steep ascents, rocky paths, and high mountain descents, all while soaking in breathtaking panoramic views of Everest and its surrounding giants.
This race demands exceptional physical fitness, endurance, and mental toughness. Yet, the rewards are unmatched—a rare chance to run in the shadow of the world’s highest peak while immersing in the rich Sherpa culture. It is not just a test of strength but a transformative journey through one of the most iconic landscapes on the planet.
Held annually on May 29, the event attracts elite athletes, adventure seekers, and passionate runners from across the globe. Training rigorously and acclimatizing well in advance is crucial for success. Additionally, having the right gear and a strategic approach ensures a safe and rewarding race experience.
Additionally, this Everest trail is a home to diverse flora and fauna, adapting to its altitude mountain environment. Trekkers may spot musk deer, Himalayan tahr, snow leopards (rare), and red pandas in forested areas, while Danphe (Himalayan monal), eagles, and vultures soar above. Lush rhododendron forests, juniper, pine, and alpine shrubs dominate the lower elevations, gradually giving way to barren, rocky landscapes near the Base Camp.
Photo @ Ammar Raj Guni, who did Everest marathon in 2009, and completed in 5 hours.
How much is the Mount Everest Marathon Trek Package Cost?
The cost of the Mount Everest Marathon trek package with local agency ranges between US$ 2385 to US$ 2940 per person. But certainly, the Everest Marathon trip price will vary according to the group member you are traveling to and your chosen service.
It’s a standard trip package price for a 14 days trek with base camp trail running activity. If you 2 runner, Everest Marathon trek cost US$ 2599 per person as per the given plan. We can modify the trek route and the prices as per your wish. Here is the price list for 14 days Everest marathon trekking in Nepal.
Price Per Person for a Everest Marathon in Nepal for 2026.
Number of Tourist
Price Per Person
1 Person
US$ 2940
2 Person
US$ 2599
3 Person
US$ 2590
4 to 6 person
US$ 2450
7 to 9 Person
US$ 2420
10 and more than 10 Person
US$ 2385
If you’re wondering to know about what is included and what is excluded from this trip price, kindly check on the cost given on a tab button.
Itinerary
Mount Everest marathon itinerary detail for 2026 to join
Mystical Mount Everest trail running trip contrasted with most strolls in this area paving the way to the base camp. In addition, the specific date is intended for world trekkers wanting to climb the Everest base camp of the fabulous mountain in a limited time wise. Explorers who wish to achieve the Everest basecamp in a progressively loosened up way can attempt this agenda notwithstanding if this schedule isn’t fit you then send us a request for a customized itinerary.
1 Day Fly to Lukla airport (2,840m/9,318 feet). Trek to Phakding (2,610m/8,563 feet), 4 hours
Today is 19 of May, and we take an early departure flight to Lukla. Later breakfast, we start the Everest journey following a delicate move up the mountainside of Dudh Koshi riverside. Furthermore, we walk further to Phakding village passing some tiny villages such as Ghat.
The trail ascends from the riverbed on the left bank into the mountains. We continue through varying terrain, crossing a stream and passing the small village of Monjo. Soon, we reach the Sagarmatha National Park office, where the entrance permit is issued.
Following the Dudh Koshi River, we cross the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge before tackling a steep ascent to Namche Bazaar (3,440m). Along the way, breathtaking views of Everest (8,848m) and Lhotse (8,516m) unfold. Nestled among the mountains, Namche Bazaar serves as the vibrant gateway to the Everest region.
3 Day(21 May) Trek to Khumjung village (3,780m/12,402 feet) [Day tour]
Hike from Namche to Khumjung is an ideal place for acclimatization to the high altitude before heading to the Tengboche monastery. Its always the best to hike in the morning to hike to Kunde hospital and Khumjung monastery as well as Khumjung hill, a big settlement of Sherpa inhabitants.
Moreover, we enjoy the splendid view of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Nuptse, Lhotse, Tawche, Kongde, and so on from here. While returning to Namche, visit the Museum just above the town that exhibits Sherpa civilization.
Conducts the Journey to Tengboche Monastery leaving a steep cliff that drops down to the Dudh Koshi. During the journey, you have a panoramic view of Ama Dablam (6,812m), Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse (7,855m) and Tawoche (6,501m)…etc. Tengboche viewpoint offers a good view of sunrise and sunset at Everest and Ama Dablam with nice lodges.
5 Day(23 May) Trek to Dingboche (4,410m/14469 feet), 6 hours
Leaving Tengboche behind, we descend through a vibrant rhododendron forest, passing Deboche, Pangboche, and Orsho before reaching Dingboche. This picturesque village serves as the gateway to Island Peak climbing or the thrilling Amphu Lapcha Pass trek.
Crossing a small suspension bridge over the Imja Khola, we ascend toward Minlinggo and enter the breathtaking Imja Tse Valley, framed by Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and Lhotse. To adapt to the high mountain terrain, a short acclimatization hike offers the perfect way to prepare for the adventure ahead.
6 Day(24 May) Acclimatization day or Hike to Nangkartshang peak.
We acclimatize at Dingboche to be familiar with the local climate. Today, we hike to Dingboche hill commonly pronounce Nangkartshang hill station to get better acclimatization. Hike to Chhukhung village is an optional day tour however it provides an excellent view of Island peak, Ama Dablam, Makalu, Tawoche peak, and others.
7 Day (25 May) Trek to Lobuche Lodges (4,910m/16,110 feet), 4 hours
It is our turn to head towards Lobuche guest houses with a gentle up at the Dusa trail. Super amazing trail that presents a grand view of mount Tawache, Ama Dablam, Pokalde (5,741m), Kongma-Tse (5,820m), and the great wall of Nuptse.
8 Day(26 May) Lobuche to Gorak Shep Lodge and Kala Patthar trek (5,550m/18,209 feet), 6 hours
We trek to Gorak Shep and drop our baggage, continue to trek to Kala Patthar hill to catch the sunrise. Kala Patthar is located at an altitude of 5,550m/18,209 feet, the best viewpoint to enjoy sunrise/sunset over the Everest vista.
We could see Mt. Everest, Mt. Pumori, Mt. Lingtren, Mt. Khumbetse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Thamserku at 360 deg angle. Return to Gorak Shep to meet the entire team of running groups, and check the medical.
9 Day(27 May) Rest day to reserve energy at Gorak shep Guest house
You can meet the runners and groups, talk and relax but no other activities because you need to save your energy to run for next day.
10 Day (28 May) Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,599 feet), stay overnight in TENT with runners.
Today is 28 of May and we hike to Everest Base Camp 17,593 feet and stay overnight in a tent. There are all runners who stay on the Everest foothill for a night halt. Full marathon runners’ schedule: there will be a mock start for the race.
11 Day 29 May Everest Marathon day. [Trail Running day]
Like every year, today has the main task to complete Everest trail running day. To win the race in the Himalayas, it starts at 7:00 am and finishes at dusk. Full marathon from Khumbu Ice Fall at Everest Base Camp to Namche Bazaar takes around 3 hours and fifty minutes for the first runner.
Non runner schedule: After breakfast, we’ll gather to watch the first runners come. Checkpoints are in the following places: – 1) Gorakh Shep, 2 – Periche, 3 – Tengboche, 4 – Phungi Thanga, and the final check – Namche Bazaar (finish line), and the race finishes at dusk.
12 Day (30 May) Rest day in Namche Bazaar to recover energy.
You have a rest day to recover your body. However, nun runner trekkers will trek descend down to Namche bazaar from Everest base camp within 2 days. Meet the entire team and collect your baggage.
13 Day (31 May) Namche Bazaar to Lukla airport (2,840m/9,318 feet), 8 hours
As you meet your entire team, last evening, we walk all the way to get Lukla airport and celebrate a party with your hiking crews. During the party, you can invite your guide and porters for delicious meals and drinks.
14 Day (1st June) flight from Lukla to Kathmandu City, 40 minutes.
We board our early flight from Lukla to Kathmandu that crosses over the Mountains and rocks. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, your guide will organize a private Car/Taxi to transfer you back to your hotel. In the afternoon, go shopping or request us to visit the Kathmandu city guided trip at an additional cost. Trip ends.
Not satisfied with above plan?
Interested in planning a custom trip? this might take 2 to 3 minutes.
How much is the Mount Everest marathon and trek package price?
Everest trail running trip package price start US$ 2599 is a standard package per person on double occupancy basis. For the deluxe and luxury tour trekking plan, we add a 4 to 5 star category hotel deluxe air conditioned room in Kathmandu. Likewise, standard lodge accommodation with attached private toilet/bathroom in possible places in the trek routes.
Mount Everest Trail running trip cost includes:
Your hotel in Thamel to Kathmandu domestic airport Transfer with private Taxi/Car both ways.
14 Breakfast serve with a cup of Tea/coffee, 13 Lunch 13 Dinner [main course] during the Everest marathon trekking days.
13 nights Guest House accommodation (common toilet) during the trekking days in the Everest Mountains.
Professional and certified mountain Trekking Guide.
Required a number of porters during the trek, (one porter = two guest basis) because our porter can carry a maximum 24 kg of your bag pack.
Well paid salary, food, accommodation, and insurance of Nepalese guide and porter.
Sagarmatha National Park and Pasang Lamu municipality entrance permit fee.
TIMS permit for Everest Marathon in Nepal.
Agency’s duffel bag (50 liters capacity), and trek poles if Necessary – return after the trek.
First aid medical kit including Oximeter to check your Oxygen level, Pulse rate to monitor every day to prepare for high altitude risk. However, in a worst case, help with all Helicopter Rescue and evacuation arrangements (but not the rescue bills).
Nepal Government Tax, VAT, and as well as Company service charge.
Mount Everest marathon cost exclude :
Foods on your stay in Kathmandu city.
Any kinds of battery charges, laundry service, phone calls, and hot showers during the trekking.
Personal nature expenses, all types of beverage drinks.
Travel Insurance which covers emergency rescue, evacuation, personal loss, or damage.
All types of donations to the monastery and gifts for the monks.
Gratuities for guide and porters [Tip is a culture, so they expect highly].
Group join
Mountain marathon is also good for adventure racing for beginners and also for professionals. Runners can achieve an unbelievable experience from the best adventure races on Everest.
We can organize your private trek to be at your own pace so you can exercise better in thriving in the Himalayas privately. And only at Gorak Shep, you can meet the entire runners and travel within a group. However, let us know your inquiry to get more information.
FAQ
Question: Is pick up service available on my arrival day in Kathmandu?
Answer: Yes sure. Provide us with your Kathmandu city arrival flight details. Our representative will come to pick up you at Kathmandu international airport.
Question: Do I need experience for the Mount Everest marathon?
Answer: Yes! better to have some trail running experience before joining the Everest base camp marathon.
Question: What kind of accommodation and food can I expect at the Mount Everest marathon?
Answer: We provide you with tourist standard accommodation during the trekking routes. Rooms along the routes are clean with a cozy bed with a nice mattress and blankets. However we recommend you take your own sleeping bags if you have one with you otherwise, you may rent them while you are in Kathmandu.
Likewise, every lodges along this trekking route stays thier own resturants where they cook a delicious range of vegetarian meals. Such as Pasta, tuna bakes, noodles, potatoes, eggs, curry rice, bread, soups, and fresh vegetables.
Question: Will I have a shower along with the Mount Everest marathon trip?
Answer: Hot showers are available at the lodges, especially until Lobuche. However, as you ascend to higher altitudes, amenities become limited or unavailable. It’s advisable to prepare for fewer comforts as you get closer to the base camp.
Question: How do I get drinking water during the Mount Everest marathon?
Answer: During the trekking route there are all places hotels and shops where you can able to buy mineral water and you can buy it for drinking but however we advise against buying mineral water in plastic bottles, as currently there are no provisions for disposing of these. Instead, we advise you to buy boiled water or bring aqua tablets to purify the normal water as the normal water is available at the campsite/along the way in the camping trekking.
Question: Can I charge my mobile phone or my digital camera?
Answer: During the Mount Everest marathon, there will be more chances to charge the battery because of staying at the guest houses. We recommend you bring an extra pair in case and also remember to bring your own adapters!.
Question: What should my insurance policy cover during the Everest trek?
Answer: Travel insurance is a very useful for your trips to Nepal. Your travel insurance must cover the helicopter rescue up to 18,000 feet altitude. It comes in handy during medical emergencies and contingency situations. It is recommended to get it from your home country. In case you haven’t bought travel insurance after arriving in Kathmandu; we can help you get one.
Question: How to prevent altitude sickness during the express Mount Everest marathon?
Answer: You should never walk too quickly or too high ignoring your body’s symptoms. Proper altitude acclimatization is the best way to prevent high altitude sickness. Listen to your body, trek gradually enjoying the best of culture and nature while giving enough time for your body to adapt to the changing atmosphere. Drink a lot of fluid & keep your body hydrated. If symptoms like a headache, difficulty in breathing, and others occur, descend to a lower altitude and take them to the hospital. If the condition worsened you will be airlifted to the hospital in Kathmandu.
Question: What happens if my scheduled flight gets delayed or canceled?
Answer: As you triumph in the Himalayas, the weather is uncertain and we cannot predict. Therefore, the rate of fight delay and cancellation is high at Lukla. If this happens, you will be boarded on the flight tomorrow and you have to spend an extra night at the hotel nearby airports. Alternatively, you can also use a Helicopter rescue flights, which depending up on the situation. So, we recommend you allocate a couple of extra days after your Everest trek so that you will not miss your international flight back.
Question: What are alternates to flying from Kathmandu to Lukla?
Answer: The best recommended way to go for any Everest trek is to board a Kathmandu to Lukla 33 minutes scenic mountain flight. Another available option is to drive from Kathmandu to Phaplu (a 12 hours drive) and trek for 2 days to reach Phakding. In the present day, there is also a regular jeep service from Kathmandu to Salleri.
Question: Is there any communication facilities for the Mount Everest marathon?
Answer: Everest Link is an internet service provider founded in 2014 that provides high speed internet and Wi-Fi in the Everest Region. It is the only internet provider at the Everest trail running, making it the world’s tallest internet service.
If you wish to stay connected with better WIFI to your family, friends, or business, we suggest you buy Everest Link internet. It’s better than other NETWORK connections and you can buy an Everest link card easily in the shops, hotels, or any small lodges in the Everest zone.
Question: When should I book my trip and what are the payment terms?
Answer: We recommend booking your trip with us as early as possible. While we strive to accommodate last minute bookings, a 15% advance deposit is required to secure your reservation. This deposit allows us to make all necessary arrangements for your trip however, the remaining payment can be settled upon your arrival in Nepal.
Question: Who will carry my luggage to the Mount Everest marathon?
Answer: We provide porters to transfer your luggage everyday that starts from Lukla airport. As we are a responsible trekking agency, our every porter carry a maximum of 24 kilos of your backpack which means 2 guests (12 kg luggage of each guest): 1 porter basis.
Question: How much distance do I walk each day?
Answer: When walking/trekking in the mountains, the distance you cover each day can vary greatly due to a gradient, terrain, and altitude. However, you need to prepare to walk roughly about 5 hours every day.
Question: I want to join the marathon group on 27th afternoon at Gorak Shep. Can I hike to Gorak Shep by myself hiring a guide?
Answer: Yes of course. If you are travelling in a tight budget for trail running adventures and have no wish to book the complete full board package trek, you can hire our expert local guide to Gorak Shep. You can meet the entire running team on Gorak Shep. Trek to Himalaya Guide hire cost is cheaper but still not the cheapest one because we pay them a very good salary to use their professionalism. However, email to us to get a cost quotation for a local guide hiring in details.
Question: Do I need walking polls for the Mount Everest marathon?
Answer: Yes, very useful.
Question: How much additional money do I need per day?
Answer: You can allocate US$ 10 to 15 each day to cover to buy bottles of water, chocolates, tea coffee along the route. Manage yourself all those currency in local neplai rupees to every every time because ATM in Lukla and Namche often out of cash and ATM payment option is not available.
Mount Everest marathon highlights
Begins at Everest Base Camp (5,364m), the highest starting point for any marathon.
Runners will navigate breathtaking Himalayan scenery through glaciers, deep valleys, and towering peaks.
It has an extreme altitude challenge because the oxygen levels are nearly 50% lower, testing endurance and resilience.
Rugged and Technical Terrain that features icy paths, and steep descents.
Local Sherpa communities provide unwavering support and warm encouragement.
Traces the iconic Tenzing Hillary trail, a path steeped in mountaineering history.
Ultimate test of your strength including physical fitness, mental toughness, and high altitude adaptation.
Rich Runners pass through ancient monasteries, vibrant prayer flags, and traditional villages.
Its a full marathon race of 42.195 kilo meters (26.2 miles) for participants.
Concludes the race with a grand celebration at 3,440m Namche Bazaar, surrounded by Himalayan beauty.
World’s Best Trail Running Adventure Tour
Nepal trek operator Gokyo Treks agency makes your walking holidays more enjoyable at the lowest price. We arrange small to the big group as upon the suggestions. Moreover, we also arrange adventurous hiking, trekking, jungle safari, peak climbing, wilderness expeditions, and family tour adventures in a professional service.
World’s best Trail Running Adventures, just Try Before You get Old?
Trail running adventure tour is very popular for young age people in Nepal. Our trail running adventure tours are designed for active adults and offer a well paced mix of walks for fitness at all levels. Most of the trail running adventure holiday is moderate to strenuous difficulty. Some are shorter trails and easy adventures in some destinations.
Furthermore, Nepal is the perfect land for you if you are a trail running lover. Every year, we arrange trail running trips in Nepal in different seasons. So, you are welcome to join us for once in lifetime trail running experience. One of the popular trail running adventures is Mount Everest, held on May 29 every year.
Likewise, Manaslu trail race happens at the beginning of November. The Mustang trail race happens on 14 to 27 April every year. Finally, the Lumbini Peace Marathon (21 kilometers) happens 1st of March every year.
It’s a trusted and certified trail running adventure operator agency that makes your holidays better. The best walking holiday operator company commits to the best service at a reasonable price. Across the mystical summit the Himalayas, it has 8 of the world’s 10 highest peaks. We provide outstanding excursions such as Annapurna, Mustang, Langtang, Manaslu, Everest, and more walking holidays on request.
Notice for the Mount Everest marathon runner!
The Everest marathon information stated above is a standard package that we provides. Local politics, landslides, cancellation of local flights, weather, transport, or a multitude of other factors that are beyond our control can result in a change of itinerary during on trip.
It is, however, very unlikely that the itinerary would be substantially altered. If alterations are necessary the leader will decide the best alternative option, taking into consideration the best interests of the whole group. When a change does occur, we do everything we can to minimize its effect, but we cannot be responsible for the results of changes or delays.
What makes Mount Everest marathon special?
Nepal’s Mount Everest Marathon is exceptionally special for runners due to its unique and challenging route. Starts at Everest Base Camp at an altitude of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) and descends through the rugged terrain of the Himalayas. This marathon offers breathtaking scenery, tests runners’ endurance and acclimatization to high altitude, and provides a once in a lifetime opportunity to run in the world’s highest and most iconic marathon.
We prioritize the quality of our services, with safety and satisfaction as our top concerns. Our team consists of professional, experienced, trained, and licensed local guides who have an in depth knowledge of the destination. Additionally, we support local communities and contribute to the conservation of natural resources, which helps to reduce costs and consumption.
Mount Everest Marathon Review
Everest Marathon - running over the rocky mountain trail
June 1, 2017
Trail running from the Everest base camp to Namche Bazaar was terrific. It was not the easiest but I did complete it in seven hours. it’s really worth at least once in a life…. to see a spectacular view of all the way and especially our running trail from Everest Base camp to Namche village.
At first, I was not sure whether to finish my Everest marathon running or not. Together with the Gokyo trek and expedition, we prepare for our journey and did run some of the high Himalayas along the routes, no doubt they have experience which made my running much easier.
Christian Klaus, Ilmenau, Germany
Response from Gokyo Treks Nepal
Naamste dear Christian, Thank you for your time to send your trail running experience for Mount Everest. We hope to serve you another marathon in Nepal for your next visit.
