Everest "base camp" express trip

1. March-May is one of the two best times of the year, the other being October-December. The latter seems to have clearer weather though colder. I think you'll have relatively warm temps, especially lower down. Expect clouds later in the day and even some rain. The Everest expeditions will be in full swing, so its a good time to be out there.

2. Have a look at some of the links from other sites in the Nepal trekking section in the Downloads. If you have a Garmin and want the full works have a look at www.nepalgpsmap.com . Before you make big purchases though bear in mind that in Thamel, Kathmandu, you find a wide range of affordable, good-quality trekking maps at every street corner. And the main trails are well established with high traffic, so its easy to get info from others on route.

3. I think look at about 1000-1500 Rupees per person per day for food and lodging (excluding guides, porters, travel, permits etc). I haven't trekked in the Everest region for about 6 years and I know inflation has hit Nepal hard. I've worked on daily budgets less than that previously. Currently don't have a very accurate feel for prices in that area. Remember too that prices will increase with altitude! What you pay in Lukla will not be what you pay at Namche and definitely not what you pay at Lobuche or Gorak Shep!

Am envious! Enjoy and let us know how it goes!

Thamel is full of foreign exchange counters accepting all major currencies. Its very easy to exchange money either way. You will need US Dollars when you pay for your visa at the airport and for buying your Lukla flight tickets. Dollars/Euros are also generally an accepted means for paying for hotels and services from a trekking agency, and various other purchases. Do ensure you have a good wad of Rupees though, especially for meals, sightseeing and for trekking. Don't exchange too much at the airport, just enough for the initial taxi, tips etc. The exchange rates are better in Thamel. You'll mostly need Rupees for the trek but definitely take Dollars along as a reserve. You can use these at Lukla for emergency flights and you can exchange them at Namche for example. Some lodges will accept them too.

Low chance of snow, so not unwise to leave your gaitors behind. Unless you are crossing the Cho La. If it snows on the main trail, it shouldn't be heavy, and if it is, it won't take long before a trail is tramped through it.

@Otterjasie: I've just caught wind of a report of snow in the upper valley leading to Everest. It might all be clear by the time you get there though.

Also, about the daily expenses, bear in mind that hot water & hot showers will cost you! And extra drinks like beer and tea will also add up. The Rs1500 per day will be your more basic costs. Boy times have changed....