Trekking to Everest Base Camp (EBC) is a once-in-a-lifetime experience - an adventure through remote valleys, Sherpa villages, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. But while you’re walking among the world’s tallest peaks, there’s one modern question many trekkers ask:
“Will I have internet access during the EBC trek? When should I purchase an internet plan, and how does it actually work?”
In today’s digital world, staying connected is important - not only for safety but also for sharing your journey, staying in touch with loved ones, and accessing maps or updates. The good news is that connectivity is possible, but it requires some planning.
In this blog, we’ll break down when to buy an internet plan for the EBC trek, the types of internet available, costs, coverage, and practical tips. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to stay connected on your way to the world’s most famous base camp.
Internet Options on the Everest Base Camp Trek
There are two main ways trekkers stay connected during the journey:
a) Local SIM Cards with Data Plans
Nepal has two major telecom providers: NTC (Nepal Telecom) and NCELL. Both offer prepaid SIM cards with internet data packs.
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NTC (Namaste SIM): Better coverage in remote areas, including parts of the Khumbu Valley.
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NCELL: Faster internet in Kathmandu and larger towns, but weaker signal at higher altitudes.
Buying a local SIM with a data package is usually the cheapest option for trekkers who want internet access.
b) Everest Link WiFi
Everest Link is a local internet provider that operates WiFi hotspots in tea houses throughout the Everest region. You purchase prepaid cards (scratch cards) with certain data limits, which can be used at participating tea houses along the trail.
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Widely available from Lukla up to Gorak Shep.
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Speeds are decent for emails, WhatsApp, or posting photos - but not great for video calls or streaming.
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Costs increase as you go higher.
When Should You Purchase an Internet Plan?
Timing matters. Here’s the breakdown:
Before You Start the Trek
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Buy a local SIM card in Kathmandu (airport or city shops).
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Packages range from NPR 500-1500 ($5-15) depending on the data volume.
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Advantage: You’ll have connectivity from day one in Kathmandu, Lukla, and villages along the trail.
During the Trek
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Purchase Everest Link WiFi cards at tea houses as you need them.
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You don’t need to buy all at once - buy in stages depending on usage.
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This is ideal if you only want internet for essentials (checking in, messaging, occasional uploads).
Best Approach
Combination of both:
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Buy a local SIM in Kathmandu for general use.
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Rely on Everest Link WiFi in remote villages where mobile data doesn’t work.
This ensures you stay connected throughout the trek without overspending.
How Does Internet Work on the Trail?
a) Mobile Data (SIM Card)
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Works well in lower villages like Lukla, Phakding, Namche Bazaar.
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Coverage gets patchy after Tengboche.
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Beyond Dingboche and Lobuche, mobile signal is unreliable.
b) Everest Link WiFi
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Available in almost every tea house above Namche Bazaar.
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You purchase a scratch card with a code (e.g., 1GB or 5GB).
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Log into the WiFi with your code - it works across multiple tea houses until your data runs out.
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Prices:
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Around NPR 600-800 ($5-7) per 1GB in lower regions.
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Up to NPR 1000-1200 ($9-10) per 1GB at higher altitudes.
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Charging Devices
Remember, electricity isn’t free at higher altitudes. Tea houses charge between NPR 200-500 ($2-5) per hour/device for charging. A power bank or solar charger is a smart investment.
Costs of Staying Connected
|
Option |
Coverage Area |
Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
NTC SIM + Data |
Good in Kathmandu, Lukla, Namche, patchy higher up |
$5-15 per package |
|
NCELL SIM + Data |
Strong in cities, weaker in Everest |
$5-15 per package |
|
Everest Link WiFi |
Tea houses from Lukla-Gorak Shep |
$5-10 per GB (increases higher) |
|
Charging Fee |
All tea houses above Namche |
$2-5 per charge |
Tips for Using Internet on the EBC Trek
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Download offline maps (Maps.me, Google Maps offline) before starting.
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Use WhatsApp, Viber, or Messenger instead of regular calls (cheaper and more reliable).
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Keep your phone on airplane mode when not using internet to save battery.
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Carry a power bank (10,000-20,000 mAh) or a solar charger.
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Don’t rely on streaming or heavy uploads - connections are for essentials, not Netflix.
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Buy SIM cards in Kathmandu - not Lukla. Availability in Lukla is limited and pricier.
Do You Really Need Internet During the Trek?
It depends on your priorities:
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For Safety: Having internet lets you communicate in case of emergencies or delays.
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For Family Updates: Many trekkers like to message loved ones to ease worry.
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For Work/Remote Jobs: Some trekkers need to stay connected with their jobs.
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For Digital Detox: Some travelers actually prefer disconnecting entirely to immerse in nature.
There’s no right or wrong - just plan ahead so you’re not surprised on the trail.
Why Book Your Trek with Best Heritage Tour?
While internet access is useful, what matters most is having a safe, well-organized trek. That’s where Best Heritage Tour comes in:
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Guides help with SIM cards & WiFi - They’ll assist you in Kathmandu and along the trail.
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Logistics handled - Permits, flights, accommodation, meals, guides, porters - all arranged.
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Safety first - In case of emergencies, their team manages communication and rescue quickly.
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Local expertise - Guides know which tea houses have the best WiFi and charging facilities.
When you trek with Best Heritage Tour, you don’t just stay connected digitally - you stay connected to the heart of the Himalayas.
Conclusion
So, when should you purchase an internet plan for the Everest Base Camp trek, and how does it work?
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Buy a local SIM with data in Kathmandu before you leave.
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Use Everest Link WiFi in tea houses where mobile data doesn’t work.
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Expect to pay more as you go higher, and don’t forget to carry extra power sources.
With the right plan, you’ll stay connected when you need to - whether it’s for safety, family updates, or simply posting that iconic photo with Everest in the background.
Stay Connected, Stay Safe - Book with Best Heritage Tour
Phone: +977-9851149197 / +977-9810043046
Email: info@bestheritagetour.com / bestheritagetour@gmail.com
Website: www.bestheritagetour.com
Office: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal
With Best Heritage Tour, every detail - from permits to WiFi - is handled, so you can focus on what truly matters: your journey to Everest Base Camp.
Author: Best Heritage Tour
Date: 24th August, 2025
