Responsible Travel & Ethics Policy
The Himalayas are our home. At Everest Itinerary, responsible travel is not a tagline - it is how we treat our staff, protect Khumbu’s delicate environment, and support mountain communities.
Our Core Pillars of Responsible Trekking
Fair Porter Welfare
We strictly enforce International Porter Protection Group (IPPG) guidelines: maximum 15kg load per trekker ratio (1 porter per 2 trekkers), fair living wages, gear, medical insurance, and warm accommodation.
Leave No Trace & Plastic Free
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality bans single-use plastic bottles. We provide filtered or boiled water refill points and carry out all non-biodegradable waste.
Local Economic Impact
We use 100% locally-owned Sherpa teahouses and purchase food and supplies directly from village families along the route, keeping financial benefits in the high valleys.
Respecting Sherpa Culture
We educate trekkers on sacred Buddhist customs - passing mani walls and chortens on the left (clockwise), removing shoes in monasteries, and respecting local traditions.
Environmental Protection in Sagarmatha National Park
Sagarmatha National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site facing severe pressure from human waste and deforestation. Here is how we minimize our footprint:
- Water Purification: We advocate SteriPEN UV, Aquatabs, or boiled teahouse water instead of purchasing single-use mineral water bottles.
- Solar & Clean Energy: We support lodges powered by micro-hydro and solar arrays rather than firewood-dependent heating.
- Pack It In, Pack It Out: Batteries, broken gear, and plastics are carried back to Lukla/Kathmandu for recycling.
Supporting Local Education & Sherpa Communities
A portion of every trek fee supports local community projects in the Solukhumbu district, including school sponsorship and health clinic supplies in lower Khumbu villages.
Trek with a company that puts people & planet first
Join us on a sustainable Everest Base Camp trek guided by local Sherpas.
Explore 14-Day EBC Trek