WiFi, Internet & ATM Facilities on the Everest Base Camp Trek

The Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek is one of the world’s most iconic adventure routes - an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Himalayas. Whether you’re preparing for your first trek or returning to Nepal again, one question always comes up:

“Will I get WiFi? Can I use the internet? And are there ATMs on the EBC Trek?”

The short answer is:
Yes, but with limitations.
WiFi is available in most villages, internet is accessible through local networks, and ATMs exist - but not everywhere and not reliably.

This guide breaks down everything trekkers need to know about connectivity, WiFi, mobile networks, and ATM access along the Everest Base Camp trail. Written with expert local insights, this article helps you prepare, plan your budget, and stay connected the smart way.

Overview: How Connected Will You Be on the EBC Trek?

The Everest region is remote, high-altitude, and far from major roads. Infrastructure relies heavily on solar power, satellite connectivity, and generators. As a result:

• WiFi is available in almost every village (sometimes paid, sometimes free).

• Internet via Ncell or NTC mobile data works in many lower areas.

• ATM services exist only in Lukla and Namche Bazaar, and even there they can run out of cash.

• The higher you go, the weaker and more expensive the connectivity becomes.

Many trekkers choose the EBC trek to disconnect, but staying occasionally connected - for safety, communication, or work - is absolutely possible.

WiFi on the Everest Base Camp Trek

1. How WiFi Works in the Khumbu Region

WiFi in the mountains is mainly provided through:

1. Everest Link - the most popular high-altitude internet provider

2. AirLink WiFi - newer system available in some villages

3. Teahouse-powered WiFi - basic routers connected to satellite internet

4. Solar and battery-powered routers - dependent on weather

The most reliable option above Tengboche is Everest Link, which offers prepaid cards.

2. WiFi Availability by Village (Complete Breakdown)

Here’s what to expect:

Note: The higher you climb, the slower and more expensive the connection.

3. Cost of WiFi on the EBC Trek

On average:

• Lower region (Lukla - Namche): Free to $3

• Mid region (Tengboche - Dingboche): $3-$5

• High region (Lobuche - Gorak Shep): $5-$10

Many teahouses now charge per device.

Everest Link Prepaid Cards

You can buy a WiFi prepaid scratch card that works in multiple villages.

Prices:

• 1GB card → $6-$10

• 5GB card → $25-$30

It’s the most reliable option above 4,000 meters.

4. Free WiFi - Is It Available?

Some teahouses offer free WiFi if:

• You stay in their lodge

• You buy dinner and breakfast

• You’re traveling in off-season

However, do not expect fast speed. Even paid WiFi at higher altitudes may struggle.

Mobile Network & Internet Data: Ncell vs NTC

Many trekkers bring Nepali SIM cards to stay connected. Two main providers operate in the Everest region:

1. Ncell Coverage

Ncell works well up to Namche Bazaar.
Above that, its signal becomes inconsistent.

Good coverage:

• Lukla

• Phakding

• Namche

Weak or no coverage:

• Tengboche

• Dingboche

• Lobuche

• Gorak Shep

Verdict: Not recommended for high-altitude connectivity.

2. NTC (Nepal Telecom) Coverage

NTC performs better in higher sections:

Stronger coverage in:

• Namche

• Tengboche

• Dingboche

• Lobuche

Still, coverage fluctuates due to terrain.

NTC Data Pricing:

• 6GB pack → approx. $4

• 16GB pack → approx. $8

• 28GB pack → approx. $10

Verdict: Better than Ncell for high-altitude use.

3. Should You Rely on Mobile Data?

Only partially.

Mobile network connectivity in the Himalayas is not predictable due to:

• Weather conditions

• Solar power shortages

• High-altitude power limitations

For a safe trek, use mobile data as a secondary backup, not your main internet plan.

ATM Facilities on the EBC Trek

Compared to WiFi availability, ATM access is extremely limited.

You can withdraw cash only in:

1. Lukla

2. Namche Bazaar

Nowhere else in the Everest region has functional ATMs.

1. ATM in Lukla

There is one ATM in Lukla, but:

• It sometimes runs out of money

• Cash withdrawal limits are low

• Service may be down during peak seasons

• High transaction fees apply

Recommendation: Do not rely on the Lukla ATM as your main source of money.

2. ATMs in Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital, has several ATMs:

• SCB (Standard Chartered Bank) ATM

• Nabil Bank ATM

• Himalayan Bank ATM

However:

• There is a NPR 35,000-50,000 withdrawal limit

• There may be an international transaction fee

• Power cuts occasionally disrupt ATM service

Still, Namche is the most reliable place for cash on the entire route.

3. How Much Cash Should You Carry?

Once you leave Namche Bazaar, you must rely on cash for:

• Food

• Accommodation

• WiFi

• Hot showers

• Charging electronics

• Tips

• Shopping

• Tea/coffee/snacks

Prices increase at higher villages because supplies must be carried by yaks or porters.

Recommended Cash to Carry:

• USD 250-300 for standard expenses

• USD 400-500 for more comfort and extra services

• USD 600+ if you plan to buy souvenirs or alcohol

Keep your cash in a waterproof pouch inside your backpack.

Electricity & Charging Facilities

Electricity is essential for using WiFi and mobile data, but charging also costs money.

Lower areas (Lukla-Namche)

• Charging may be free

• Some lodges include charging in the room price

Higher areas (Dingboche-Gorak Shep)

• Charging costs $2-$5 per device

• Solar power means electricity depends on weather

• Bring a power bank (10,000-20,000 mAh)

• A solar charger is optional but useful

What to Expect: Realistic Internet Speed on the EBC Trail

Do not expect fast speeds like in Kathmandu.

Average speeds:

• Lower region: 2-10 Mbps

• Middle region: 1-5 Mbps

• High region: 0.5-2 Mbps

• Gorak Shep & Lobuche: Often below 1 Mbps

Video calls may not work consistently above Dingboche.

Tips to Stay Connected Safely and Efficiently

1. Download offline content

Before starting your trek, download:

• Google Maps offline

• EBC trekking route maps

• Music playlists

• Netflix/YouTube videos

• E-books

2. Buy Everest Link cards early

Buy them in:

• Phakding

• Namche

• Tengboche

They sometimes sell out in higher villages.

3. Carry extra batteries

Cold temperatures drain phone batteries quickly.

4. Protect devices from cold

Store electronics in your sleeping bag at night.

5. Use airplane mode while trekking

This saves:

• Battery

• Data

• Network search time

6. Do not rely on WiFi for emergency communication

Teahouse WiFi often goes down.

For safety:

• Guides usually carry satellite phones

• You can rent a satellite phone in Kathmandu

• Some trekkers use Garmin inReach

Final Thoughts: Staying Connected on the EBC Trek

The Everest Base Camp Trek is remote, majestic, and culturally rich. But with that beauty comes limited connectivity. WiFi is available in most villages, mobile networks work partially, and ATMs are only reliable up to Namche Bazaar.

If you prepare properly and carry enough cash, you will have all the communication options you need - without stress. A good guide and trekking agency like Best Heritage Tour ensure a smoother, safer, and more comfortable experience.

Plan Your Everest Base Camp Trek With Best Heritage Tour

Phone / WhatsApp / Viber: +977-9851149197 / +977-9810043046

Email: info@bestheritagetour.com / bestheritagetour@gmail.com

Website: www.bestheritagetour.com

Office: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal

Author: Best Heritage Tour

Date: 24th November, 2025