Matthew Jones passed away while trekking in Nepal.

Fairfax Media has been told he was not attempting to reach the summit, but was among the tens of thousands of tourists who every year trek to Everest base camp, mostly without incident.

Mr Jones had a successful career at multinational tech company, Intel, and on Monday tributes were flowing in from around the world.

Intel Australia's managing director Kate Burleigh said no words could express the void Mr Jones would leave behind.

"He was a unique character and will be remembered for not only his great work ethic and leadership but also his sharp wit and passion for good wine, fancy dress parties, history, travel and 'vexillology' [the study of flags] ," she said.

"Matt was truly one of a kind who will be greatly missed. The Intel team is mourning the loss of our friend and colleague."

It is understood Mr Jones reached base camp on Friday, but started experiencing breathing difficulties upon his descent.

He reportedly died the next day.

Local media have said a 49-year-old Australian man died at Lobuche village, located just below base camp, at 4940 metres above sea level, after likely falling ill with altitude sickness.

They reported he had been staying at the Madan Hotel in Pheruche of Khumjung-7, in the Solukhumbu district.

In a statement, Intel said it was providing "support in this difficult time to Matthew's wife and family".

"We ask that you respect the family's wishes and let them mourn in private at this time. "

A spokeswoman for the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade would only say the department was aware of the death of an Australian man in Nepal.

"We stand ready to offer consular assistance in accordance with the consular services charter," DFAT said in a statement.