Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trekking
Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trekking
  • 17 Days
  • Trekking
  • 5,545 m People
Overview
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Duration

17 Days

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Activity

Trekking

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Difficulty

Moderate

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Group

5,545 m Per(s)

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Best Season

Autumn and Spring

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Arrival/Route

Your Hotel in Kathmandu

Embark on an adventure that explores both scenic sides of the high Khumbu region with the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake trek. Traverse the stunning Cho-La Pass from the beautiful Gokyo Valley to the base of Everest, experiencing breathtaking panoramas from high vantage points like Gokyo Ri and Kalapathar. Discover traditional Sherpa villages steeped in rich Buddhist culture and explore the diverse flora and fauna within Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a swift and scenic flight between Kathmandu and Lukla, offering grand views of the Himalayas throughout your journey.

Trip Profile:  

Trip Mode: On hotels and lodge basis on treks.

Trek Grade: Moderate and Adventurous. 

People and Culture: Populated by Sherpa people of Buddhism religions with colorful and impressive cultures.

Highest spot: On top Gokyo-Ri 5,483 m, Cho-la 5,420 m with Kalapathar 5,545 m high.

The region of Trekking: Nepal Far North Mid-East Khumbu and Everest Region.

Duration of walks: 13 Nights and 14 Days (Lukla to Lukla).

Total Trip: 17 Nights and 18 Days (Arrival to final departure).

Seasons:

The best times to trek in Nepal are from March to May and September to November. During March to May, you'll witness wildflowers in bloom, with clear mornings and pleasant daytime temperatures perfect for trekking. From October to November, the weather is also ideal, offering clear mountain views. However, be prepared for colder temperatures in the mornings and evenings, especially at higher altitudes.

Introduction:

Gokyo and Everest Base Camp Trekking with Nepal High Point Treks offers a spectacular adventure through the world’s highest and most scenic region—the Khumbu Valley, nestled in the shadow of the mighty Everest.

This trek combines the best of the Everest region and the Khumbu high valley, providing a truly inspiring experience. Over two weeks, you'll traverse breathtaking landscapes, cross the challenging Cho-La Pass, and arrive at the base of the world's highest peak, Mt. Everest.

The journey begins with a panoramic flight to Lukla, the gateway to the high Khumbu Valley. From Lukla, the trek progresses into the Dudh Kosi River valley, passing through picturesque Sherpa villages and lush forests before reaching Namche Bazaar. This vibrant village, the main hub of the Khumbu region, offers a glimpse into local life and traditions, including the lively Saturday market.

From Namche, the trek heads towards the remote corners of Khumbu, constantly surrounded by views of Everest and neighboring peaks. The trail leads into the serene Gokyo Valley, renowned for its tranquil glacial lakes reflecting the surrounding mountains. Hike up to Gokyo Ri for a panoramic vista of the world’s highest peaks, including Mt. Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.

The adventure continues beyond the Ngozumba Glacier, crossing the scenic Cho-La Pass to reach Everest Base Camp, where you'll be dwarfed by the towering peaks of Nuptse and Lhotse and the expansive Khumbu Glacier and icefalls.

The trek culminates with a climb to Kala Patthar, the highest point of the journey at 5,545 meters, offering stunning close-up views of Everest and the surrounding giants.

Enjoy the thrill and magnificent scenery of the high Khumbu Valley before descending to the serene Thyangboche Monastery. Here, you can appreciate the beauty of the area and its impressive monastery.

Returning to Namche and then Lukla, you'll take a scenic flight back to Kathmandu, reflecting on a grand adventure filled with extraordinary experiences and the excellent service of Nepal High Point Treks and its dedicated team.

 

Outline Itinerary: 

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.

Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing (World heritage site)

Day 03: Fly to Lukla 2,820 m and walk to Phakding 2,560 m - 04 hrs.

Day 04: Trek to Namche Bazaar 3,440 m - 06 hrs. 

Day 05: At Namche rest day for acclimatization and short hike.      

Day 06: Trek to Dole 4,210 m - 06 hrs.

Day 07: Trek to Machhermo 4,470 m - 04 hrs. 

Day 08: Trek to Gokyo Valley 4,800 m / 15,744 ft - 04 hrs.

Day 09: Climb to Goyko Ri at 5,483 m and walk to Thagnak 4,780 m - 04 hrs.

Day 10: Cross over Cho-la (Tsho) pass 5,420 m to Dzongla - 4,784 hrs -08 hrs.  

Day 11: Trek to Lobuche 4,930 m - 05 hrs. 

Day 12: Trek to Everest base camp 5,364 m and back to Gorakshep- 06 hrs.

Day 13: Hike to Kalapathar 5,545 m and trek to Pangboche 3,900 m - 06 hrs.

Day 14: Trek to Namche Bazaar via Thyangboche 3,867 m - 06 hrs.

Day 15: Trek to Lukla via Phakding village - 06 hrs.

Day 16: Fly back to Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.

Day 17:  Depart Nepal for international flight home-ward bound.

 

Additional Services you May interested in: 

  1. Everest Mountain Scenic flight 
  2. Nagarkot, Bhaktapur, Changunarayan Tour
  3. Sunrise View 
  4. Chitawan Jungle safari
  5. White water rafting

Package plans (Itinerary)

1Day 01-Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.

Upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our staff and guide. You will then be transferred to your hotel located in the heart of Kathmandu. After refreshing yourself in your room, join us for a group briefing. During this session, Nepal High Point Treks guides will provide detailed information about your trek, including local lodges, hotels, cultural insights, and other essential details related to the Gokyo and Everest trekking adventure.

2Day 02-Kathmandu sightseeing (World heritage site)

Kathmandu, nestled in a valley steeped with cultural and historical significance, offers a wealth of world heritage sites and important monuments. During your sightseeing tour, you'll explore the revered Pashupatinath Temple, a major Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its intricate architecture and vibrant rituals. You'll also visit the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest and most important stupas in Nepal, renowned for its serene ambiance and significant Tibetan Buddhist influence. The tour includes a trip to the Swayambhunath Stupa (commonly known as the Monkey Temple), which provides stunning panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and is a focal point of both Buddhist and Hindu worship. Finally, you'll discover Patan Durbar Square, a historic royal palace complex in Patan, celebrated for its exquisite Newari architecture and rich artistic heritage. Each of these sites offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Kathmandu’s spiritual and cultural history.

3Day 03-Fly to Lukla 2,820 m and walk to Phakding 2,615 m - 04 hrs.

Early in the morning, your Nepal High Point Treks guide and staff will pick you up from your hotel for a short drive to Kathmandu Domestic Airport. After completing the necessary security formalities, you'll board a small aircraft, such as a Dornier or Twin Otter, for a scenic flight heading east. As you soar through the sky, enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayan range, including the iconic Mt. Everest. The flight will land at Lukla's Tenzing-Hillary Airport, named in honor of the legendary mountaineers. Upon arrival, take a moment to refresh before beginning your trek. The journey starts with a gradual trail featuring some downhill sections and short ascents, leading to your first overnight stop in Phakding village, a charming Sherpa settlement situated above the Dudh-Kosi River.

4Day 04-Trek to Namche Bazaar 3,440 m - 06 hrs.

A leisurely morning walk will take you to the Sagarmatha National Park entrance gate, where you'll have time to rest and acclimate. After crossing a bridge, you'll reach Jorsalle, the last village before Namche Bazaar, where you may stop for lunch. From Jorsalle, the trail continues along the riverbed through a forested area before ascending steeply from the final high bridge to Namche Bazaar. This vibrant and bustling town is the gateway to the high Khumbu region. Once in Namche, you'll check into a comfortable lodge and have the opportunity to explore the town's well-stocked shops and experience its lively atmosphere. Namche Bazaar, the main hub of the Khumbu area, is known for its colorful and busy Saturday market, which offers a unique glimpse into local life and culture.

5Day 05-At Namche rest day for acclimatization and short hike.

A rest day in Namche Bazaar is crucial for acclimatization before ascending to higher altitudes. You have several options for short walks that offer spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. One notable hike is to the Everest View Hotel, which takes about four hours round-trip. From this vantage point, you'll be rewarded with an excellent panorama of the mountains, including the majestic Everest and the stunning Ama Dablam. During your time in Namche, you can also visit the local museum, which provides valuable insights into the Khumbu Sherpa culture, the region’s flora and fauna, and the history of mountaineering expeditions. After a morning of exploration, you’ll have the rest of the afternoon at leisure to relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Namche Bazaar.

6Day 06-Trek to Dole 4,210 m - 06 hrs.

After a delightful stay in Namche, you'll embark on a morning walk that includes a short climb and a gradual, scenic trail offering views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and a range of other peaks. As the trail meanders through lush greenery and woodland, it diverges from the main Everest Base Camp route and heads north. This section includes a steep climb for about an hour to Mong Hill, where a few shops and a small lodge provide a stunning panoramic view of the mountain range, including Everest to the north. From Mong Hill, the path descends towards Phortse Tenga, a village situated by the Dudh Kosi River amidst wooded areas. In the afternoon, you’ll continue the trek with a climb through a gorge surrounded by pine and rhododendron forests, leading to the small settlement of Dole, where you’ll spend the night.

7Day 07-Trek to Machhermo 4,470 m - 04 hrs

After a pleasant overnight stay in Dole, the trek continues with a gradual descent where tree lines give way to short bushes of rhododendron and juniper. The trail includes a short, steep climb followed by a level path leading to Lhabarma Kharka at 4,325 meters. From there, you’ll continue to Luza at 4,390 meters. As you walk along the ridge, you'll catch your first glimpse of Machherma, a small settlement nestled in a valley below. The trek concludes for the day with an overnight stop in Machherma, where you’ll rest and enjoy the serene surroundings.

8Day 08-Trek to Gokyo Valley 4,800 m / 15,744 ft - 04 hrs.

In the morning, you'll set out towards the serene Gokyo Valley, following a scenic trail that first leads to Pangka at 4,545 meters. From there, you'll climb a rocky path into the ablation valley, passing by the first and second lakes along the way. Your destination is the third lake, known as Dudh Pokhari or Gokyo Lake. At the lake's shore, where the summer settlement of Gokyo is situated at 4,790 meters, you’ll have the chance to relax and enjoy lunch. Afterwards, take a short walk around the lake to soak in the stunning views. Gaze at the reflection of Mt. Cho Oyu, the world's sixth-highest peak, and Gyachung Kang in the emerald waters of Gokyo Lake. The serene environment and breathtaking scenery make this a memorable highlight of your trek.

9Day 09-Climb to Goyko Ri at 5,483 m and walk to Thagnak 4,780 m - 04 hrs.

In the early morning, you'll embark on a hike to Gokyo Ri, which stands at 5,483 meters and serves as the highest point and highlight of your adventure. From this vantage point, you'll be treated to a breathtaking panorama of the world's highest mountains, including Mt. Cho Oyu, Gyachung Kang, Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Cholatse, and Taweche. To the east, you'll also see Mt. Makalu in the distance. After soaking in the spectacular views, return to Gokyo for a well-deserved lunch. Following your meal, you'll continue your trek to Thagnak, a remote settlement situated below the Cho-la Pass. This peaceful and isolated area provides a tranquil spot for your overnight stay before the next stage of your journey.

10Day 10-Cross over Cho-la (Tsho) pass 5,420 m to Dzongla - 4,784 hrs -08 hrs:

Starting early from Thangnag, you'll begin a steady climb towards the Cho-la Pass. The ascent will take a few hours, but the effort is rewarded with magnificent views from the top, including Nirekha and Lobuche peaks, as well as a close-up of Cholatse. After taking in the stunning scenery, you’ll descend towards a small, secluded valley at Dzong-la for your overnight stop. Please note that if snow conditions make the route challenging or unsafe, your guide will assess the situation and may decide to either proceed with caution or take an alternative, safer route.

11Day 11-Trek to Lobuche 4,930 m - 05 hrs.

After a pleasant stay in Dzongla, you’ll begin your morning with a short climb up a ridge top, offering sweeping views of the surrounding high peaks. From there, the trek continues on a good, gradual path. Your route winds above the Pheriche Valley, with spectacular views of Cholatse and Taboche peaks. As you ascend higher, you’ll pass Thugla, where the massive Khumbu Glacier feeds into a powerful river. The trek continues with a steady ascent until you reach Lobuche, situated at the corner of a broad valley. Lobuche is nestled beneath the peaks of Lobuche East and West, providing a dramatic and scenic backdrop for your overnight stay.

12Day 12-Trek to Everest base camp 5,364 m and back to Gorakshep- 06 hrs.

Today's adventure brings you to the iconic Everest Base Camp. Your morning trek begins with a gradual ascent through a flat valley, followed by a steeper climb to reach a ridge above the Khumbu Glacier. From here, the path continues over rocky moraines and icy terrain to reach Gorak Shep, situated at the base of Kalapathar and Mt. Pumori. After a brief stop in Gorak Shep, you'll proceed east to Everest Base Camp. At Base Camp, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Khumbu Icefall, glaciers, and the towering peaks of Nuptse, Everest, and Lhotse. During the high mountaineering season of April to May, the area is bustling with the colorful tents of various expeditions. After soaking in the exhilarating atmosphere of Everest Base Camp and achieving your goal, you'll return to Gorak Shep for the night. The next steps will be to descend back to Lukla, with a climb up Kalapathar scheduled for later to capture even more spectacular views.

13Day 13-Hike to Kalapathar 5,545 m and trek to Pangboche 3,900 m - 06 hrs.

Early in the morning, before breakfast, embark on a climb to the top of a rocky hill at 5,545 meters, the highest point of your adventure. Here, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of towering peaks, including close-up views of Mount Everest and Mt. Pumori. After soaking in the spectacular scenery, descend back to Gorak Shep for breakfast. With your energy replenished, continue your trek down to the Pheriche Valley, where you'll spend the night in a cozy lodge. Pheriche, nestled in a scenic valley near Dingboche, is home to the Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) and offers a serene environment for rest and recovery.

14Day 14-Trek to Namche Bazaar - 06 hrs.

From Pangboche, trek up to the picturesque village of Tengboche, renowned for its vibrant monastery and stunning surroundings. As you continue, you'll descend into lush woodlands and follow a scenic trail with both uphill and downhill sections, leading you back to Namche Bazaar. Here, you'll spend your final night in the Khumbu region before heading to Lukla.

15Day 15-Trek to Lukla via Phakding - 06 hrs.

On the final day of your adventure, you'll embark on a long trek to Lukla. The journey begins with a descent to a river valley, passing through the Sagarmatha National Park entrance and exiting at Monjo village. Continuing past Phakding, you'll tackle a final short climb to reach Lukla, where you'll spend your last night in the region. The next morning, you’ll take a flight back to Kathmandu, concluding your memorable trek.

16Day 16-Fly back to Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.

After an early breakfast, you'll board a short, scenic flight back to Kathmandu. As you depart from Lukla, you'll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the mountains. Upon landing at Kathmandu airport, you'll be driven back to your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on the incredible adventure you've just experienced.

17Day 17-Depart Nepal for international flight home-ward bound.

Last day in the country of high Everest within massive Himalaya, with wonderful short experience and adventure on Gokyo and Everest Base Camp trek, then depart from the hotel as per your flight time as Nepal High Point Treks staff transfers you to Kathmandu international airport for your homeward flight or to next respective countries.

Included

  • All ground transportation as per itinerary

  • Round trip air ticket (Kathmandu-Lukla and Lukla-Kathmandu)

  • A well trained and experienced, English speaking, trekking guide (his food, accomodation, insurance, salary, round trip air ticket Lukla-Kathmandu).

  • Accommodation in hotel / lodge/ tea house during the trek.

  • Meals three times a day (breakfast, lunch & dinner) during trek.

  • Government permit (Trekkers information management system (TIMS) permit.

  • Everest region national park permit.

  • Local community area permit.

  • Trek completion certificate as award

  • All Government and local taxes.


Excluded

  • Your personal nature expenses and travel insurance.

  • Food during your stay in Kathmandu

  • Drinks (tea, coffee, coke, beer), beverage, hot shower and heater charge during trekking.

  • Entry permit for temple and stupa during Kathmandu sightseeing

  • Kathmandu airport pickups and drops in a private vehicle (on request)

  • Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu (on request)

  • Kathmandu sightseeing with well trained city tour guide (Pashupatinath, Syambhunath, Baudanath, Patan city) (on request)

  • Two guest = 1 porter (his food, accomodation, insurance, salary (on request)

Important infos


Equiment Checklist

Here’s a complete rundown of what to bring if you’re planning a trek to Everest Base Camp or any other tea-house trek in Nepal.  Proper preparation and equipment for the conditions will go a long way to ensuring you have a great trekking experience.  What follows is a pretty comprehensive list and will make sure you are covered in the coldest months of the year. If you have questions on what you might need just ask us and keep in mind that Kathmandu is a great place to buy trekking gear at affordable prices.

IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS AND ITEMS

  • Valid passport, 2 extra passport size photos, airline tickets
  • Separate photocopies of passport, visa form (easily obtained at Kathmandu airport), proof of insurance
  • Dollars, pounds or Euros in cash for purchasing Nepalese visa at Kathmandu airport, for paying for restaurants and hotels, for gratuities, snacks, and to purchase your own drinks and gifts
  • Credit cards, Bank/ATM/Cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines (bring a photocopy of your cards), traveler's checks, etc.

ON THE TRAIL DAYPACK

  • Extra layers, gloves, wind breaker and poncho
  • Sunscreen
  • Lip Balm with Sunscreen
  • Broad brimmed hat or bandana (for sun protection)
  • Iodine Water Tablets (personal preference)
  • Water Bottles or Camel Back
  • Sunglasses
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Favorite Snacks
  • Waterproof bags to protect electronics or paperwork
  • Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
  • Umbrella (works great in a light rain or to protect from the sun)
  • Duct tape or moleskin for blisters
  • Toilet Paper
  • Trekking Poles (optional)
  • Thermos (optional for hot beverages)

CLOTHING: BASE, MIDDLE AND OUTER LAYERS

  • Moisture wicking long sleeve tee-shirts (2)
  • Moisture wicking tee-shirts (1)
  • Long underwear pants (2)
  • Underwear (5 to 7)
  • Heavy Fleece or Down Jacket
  • Long sleeve shirts (2)
  • Sweatshirt (optional)
  • Fleece Pants
  • Trekking Pants (2)
  • Shorts (optional)
  • Gortex or Waterproof Jacket with hood
  • Rain Poncho that covers your day pack
  • Waterproof Pants
  • Wide brimmed hat
  • Wool hat (Should cover ears) or Balaclava
  • Lightwight Gloves
  • Insulated Wool or Down Mittens
  • Gaiters (optional)

FOOTWEAR: SHOES AND SOCKS

  • Hiking boots with ankle support
  • Camp shoes or Tennis Shoes
  • Plastic bag to carry spare shoes
  • Hiking socks (10)
  • Sock Liners (optional)
  • SLEEPING BAG
  • Sleeping bag rated to -15° C/ 0° f
  • Sleeping bag liner (optional)
  • Sleeping bag stuff sack

DUFFEL BAGS AND DAY PACKS

  • Duffel Bag for Carrying Your Gear (we provide this for the trek)
  • Day Pack for Carrying what you need on the trail
  • Small Lock(s) for duffel bag and day pack
  • Waterproof cover for daypack
  • Drybags in several sizes
  • Stuff sacks for dirty clothes/shoes

FIRST AID KIT AND TOILETRIES

  • Our team brings along a basic first aid kit but we recommend you also carry the following;
  • Advil or Ibuprofen
  • Diamox (for altitude sickness)
  • Personal Prescriptions
  • Medical Tape (for preventing treating blisters)
  • Antibiotics (Cipro for travelers’ diarrhea)
  • Diaper Rash Cream (Can treat rashes or chaffing)
  • Basic toiletries (Soap, Deodorant…)
  • Wet wipes
  • Panty Liners and Tampons
  • Face lotion
  • Hair brush
  • Hair ties
  • Hand warmers
  • Ear plugs for sleeping

OTHER ITEMS

  • Portable Solar Charger
  • Journal, pen and paper
  • Reading book
  • Voltage converter (from 220 to 110)
  • Plug adapter (2 round pegs to 2 flat pegs)
  • Lightweight pillow case (in case your teahouses provide you with pillows) or use your own stuff as a pillow