Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo - 17 days

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Things to Know
  • Duration17 Days
  • Difficulty Level Technical Challenging
  • Altitude 5,555 m/18,225 ft
  • Trip Type High Altitude Trekking
  • Start and End Kathmandu - Kathmandu
  • Best Time Mar-May, Sep-Nov
What You’ll Do
  • Immerse in the beautiful scenery as you fly from Kathmandu to Lukla
  • Witness the divine beauty in the turquoise-blue Gokyo Lake
  • Explore the vibrant culture and traditions of the Sherpa people
  • Explore the vistas of Choyu, Makalu, Nuptse, Lhotse, Everest
  • Beautiful hike to Kala Patthar (5,555 m/18,225 ft) and Gokyo Ri (5,483 m/17,388 ft)
  • Prayer flags, suspension bridges, rhododendrons, pine and juniper
  • Explore the beautiful Khumbu Icefall and Cho La Pass
  • Beautiful vistas of mountains from the planet’s highest hotel - Everest View Hotel

The Gokyo Lakes Trek to Everest Base Camp takes place in the Khumbu region, where you'll discover some of nature's hidden gems. This adventure includes exploring beautiful Gokyo Lakes, crossing the tough Cho La Pass, enjoying panoramic views from Gokyo Ri, and witnessing the incredible Khumbu Icefall.

Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trek takes you to witness the splendour of mighty mountains such as Everest, Pumori, Taboche, Choyu, Nuptse and the turquoise blue water of Gokyo. This is a beautiful trek experience that is quite unconventional as we trek through Gokyo towards the Everest Base Camp. It is also known as Everest Circuit Trek. Exploring the beauty of Sherpa Culture, the mighty mountains, villages and valleys. This trek experience will rejuvenate your soul as it takes you far away from bustling city life to the lap of nature.

The trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu/ Manthali to Lukla. The scenic flight features flying above the skies with the vistas of lush green hills, gorgeous lakes and whatnot. We then hike a small elevation from Lukla to Phakding. The planet’s highest hotel i.e. Everest View Hotel also offers the best view of mighty Mt. Everest. We cross many settlements such as Namche, Phortse Tenga, Machherma, Gokyo Valley, Thangna, Dzongla, Tengboche, Pangboche, Lobuche, Pheriche, Gorakshep and get back to Lukla. Somedays we trek through icy and rocky terrain whereas other days we may trek through smooth Trail. The trek will get us through ups and downs, thick and thin; but help us to experience the most beautiful scenery and vistas.

We get to witness the above 5000 metres high Cho La pass, a vista of the tallest mountain i.e. Everest which is also accompanied by aforementioned mountains, trek through rivers and prayers flag alongside, and get to observe and know Sherpa Culture. Pack your bags and get ready for this adventure.

Itinerary
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  • Altitude1,400 m
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Time2-3 hours

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, one of our representatives will be there to greet you and facilitate your transfer to your designated hotel. Your hotel is conveniently located in the heart of the city (Thamel). Thamel is renowned for its assortment of restaurants, bars, and shops offering an array of distinctive Nepali handcrafted products and trekking equipment. It's an engaging place to explore and make the most of your afternoon.

Today, you'll also have the opportunity to meet with your guide. Feel free to address any remaining questions or inquiries you may have regarding your upcoming journey to Everest Base Camp via Gokyo lakes.

  • Altitude2,840 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time35 min flight from ktm, 5-6 hrs drive & 20 min flight from Manthali, & 3-4 hrs trek

The journey begins with an early morning flight to Lukla, which stands as one of the world's highest airports. The flight offers breathtaking views, especially as you approach the Sherpa heartland. As you step off the plane, the crisp, pure mountain air greets you, making the entire experience truly invigorating. From Lukla, a roughly 3-hour trek leads you to Phakding, where you'll spend your first night amidst the mountainous terrain. Along the way, you'll traverse a suspension bridge, and pass by a serene monastery. 

Manthali to Lukla Flight: (March, April, May, October, and November) - 5-6 hrs drive & 20 min flight  
Kathmandu to Lukla Flight:(January, February, June, July, August, September, and December) -  35 min flight

 

 

  • Altitude3,440 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time5-6 hours

Our journey proceeds northward, tracing the picturesque Dudh Koshi River, which unveils breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks that encompass us. Along the way, we'll traverse several suspension bridges, including the renowned Hillary Suspension Bridge. As we advance, we'll enter Sagarmatha National Park, where we'll complete the necessary permit formalities. Here, we begin our ascent through a lush forest, and from this vantage point, the initial glimpses of Mt. Everest come into view. However, our trek continues until we reach the vibrant village of Namche Bazaar.

  • Altitude3,880 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time3-4 hours

The probability of sickness from altitude increases with elevation. We need to fuel our bodies for the upcoming days because the trek is challenging. In order to learn about the elegance and diversity of Sherpa culture, we will walk up to the Sherpa museum. In addition, we will ascend to the Everest View Hotel, which offers an unparalleled panorama of the Khumbu peaks and stunning Himalayan sunsets. Think about going up to Syanboche Airport if you enjoy walking. The path is not too challenging. We'll travel back to Namche on foot and relax in the guesthouse.

  • Altitude3,680 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time4-5 hours

We will follow the route out of the valley today and continue walking with the magnificent views of rhododendrons, juniper and pine trees throughout. We will pass through various Yak kharkas and summer settlements enjoying the majestic vistas of mighty Khumbi La and Taboche. We will reach Phortse Tenga .The distance between Namche Bazaar and Phortse Tenga is 3.5 miles or 5.7 kilometers.

  • Altitude4,470 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time5-6 hours

We will begin ascending steeply to Dole through birch and rhododendron forests. On the way, we will see stunning views of Cho Oyu (8201m), Thamserku (6608m) and Kantega (6782m) The trail then leads us to Lapahrma village and then Luja before finally reaching our destination Machhermo.

  • Altitude4,790 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time5-6 hours

We will be climbing to Gokyo, so the altitude is going to rise. As we go along the scenic road to Pangka, we follow one of the melt-water streams that flows down the western side of the Ngozumpa Glacier. The first lake, Longponga, is found at an altitude of 4,650 meters and is located at the top of several staircases that are part of the route. We encounter another lake called Taujun as we proceed down the valley.

We continue our ascent with DudhPokhari by our side till we arrive at the spectacular Gokyo Valley. Stone homes and enclosed fields will be evident to us in the Gokyo Valley.

  • Altitude5,483 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time5 hours

Today, We hike to Gokyo Ri (5,483 m). We will begin our steep climb to reach the top. We will see Ngozumpa glacier, the biggest glacier in Nepal and the panoramic view of snow-capped mountains like Mt. Everest (8,848 m), Mt. Cho Oyu (8,201 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m), and many more. We will then witness the glorious fourth lake, Thonak Tsho and the fifth lake, Ngozuma Tsho. 

  • Altitude4,790 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time5-6 hours

Following a day of acclimatization in the picturesque village of Gokyo, we resume our trek, with Thangnak as our next destination. Along the way, we'll navigate through the impressive Ngozumpa Glacier. While the trail may present occasional ascents and descents, it doesn't involve a significant gain in elevation. This shorter trek is designed to offer a more manageable and enjoyable experience. Thangnak village is nestled beside the Ngozumpa Glacier, creating a tranquil and breathtaking backdrop. It serves as an ideal location for trekkers, as it strategically positions them for the upcoming challenge of crossing the Cho-La high pass, which stands at an elevation of 5,330 meters.

  • Altitude5,420 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time7-8 hours

It is quite a long and hectic trek today as we start early in the morning so that we can avoid bad weather conditions. It will become very dangerous if the trail is covered by snow as Cho La pass stands at 5368 metres. We will walk across the rocky and glacial trails to reach the top of the pass which offers the astounding views of Cho La Lake and Mt. Cholatse. We will enjoy the view for a while and start walking down the hill carefully because the trail can be quite slippery. Upon reaching, Dzongla, we will rest overnight.

  • Altitude4,910 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time5 hours

Today, we will walk down the moraine accompanying Cho La Lake. We will follow the Khumbu Glacier and Imjakhola. This is a 4-5 hours trek and is quite pleasurable. We will also get to encounter the memorial statues of previous trekkers who died during the expedition. We will reach Lobuche which connects us to the conventional EBC Trail.

  • Altitude5,364 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time7-8 hours

This is a challenging and significant day of trekking as we make our way alongside the Khumbu Glacier, ultimately reaching the iconic Everest Base Camp situated at an elevation of 5,365 meters (17,601 feet). This is as close as one can get to the awe-inspiring Mt. Everest without the specialized mountaineering gear. During the spring season, it's common to encounter expedition teams preparing for their summit attempts. The sight of the Khumbu Icefall from Base Camp is nothing short of spectacular, offering a glimpse into the world of high-altitude mountaineering. After experiencing the grandeur of Everest Base Camp, we make our way back to Gorak Shep, where we'll spend the night, undoubtedly reflecting on the remarkable journey we've undertaken.

  • Altitude5,555 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time5 hours

With the prospect of witnessing the first sunrise on Mount Everest today, the excitement of this entire journey will only increase. We set off on our journey early in the morning in the direction of Kala Patthar (5,555 m) out of dread of missing this magnificent scene. We shall take a moment to catch our breath before photographing the opulent view of Everest. We will arrive at the world's best viewpoint, known as Kala Patthar, after several hours of walking. We sit there once we have reached the highest point. The Himalayas will be evident to our eyes from a magnificent and incredible vantage point. You'll be so taken aback by the mind-numbing beauty 0f Himalayas. After that, we'll head back to Gorakshep to eat breakfast. We will then descend to Pheriche for an overnight stay.

  • Altitude4,250 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time5-6 hours

We shall descend via the juniper and rhododendron-adorned mountainside. We will pass Pheriche (4,270m) and Tengboche (3,860m) on the way to Namche. We move forward while admiring the breathtaking view of Ama DablamThamserku, and other landmarks.  Upon reaching Namche, we will take a nice hot shower and enjoy an overnight stay.

  • Altitude3,440 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • Time5-6 hours

Our final day of trekking brings us full circle as we return to Lukla, the place where our incredible journey began. This marks a special moment for our group to come together and reflect on the trek's shared experiences and the personal accomplishments of each participant. As evening falls, we come together for a celebratory gathering, enjoying a few drinks and dancing in the company of our fellow trekkers, making lasting memories of this extraordinary adventure.

  • Altitude1,400m
  • AccommodationHotel

We will be taking an early-morning flight back to Manthali or Kathmandu today, based on the season of the year. If our flight is to Manthali, we will drive back to Kathmandu the same day. If not, a 30-minute flight from Lukla to Kathmandu will be taken instead. You will be driven to your hotel room by our airport representative upon reaching Kathmandu. You can rest and freshen up. This is your final night in Nepal, you will be treated with delicious Nepali food.

Lukla to Manthali Flight: (March, April, May, October, and November) - The flight from Lukla to Manthali is a 20-minute flight and a 5 to 6-hour drive to Kathmandu. Lukla to Kathmandu Flight: (January, February, June, July, August, September, and December) The flight from Lukla takes about 35 minutes.

    Our airport representative will drop you off at Kathmandu’s Tribhuwan International Airport as per your flight schedule. we hope we see you again.

    Trip Map
    Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo - 17 days map
    Trip Cost Details
    Included
    • All (international and domestic) airport transfers on a tourist vehicle
    • Standard twin-sharing accommodation in a Tourist Standard Hotel for 2 nights in Kathmandu - including breakfast.
    • Twin-sharing guest house accommodation during the trek for 14 nights in the Everest Region.
    • All your standard meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) including one hot drink and seasonal fruits  
    • Experienced, first-aid trained, government-licensed, English-speaking  trekking guide
    • Permits for Sagarmatha/Everest National Park and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System)
    • Porters during the trek for carrying luggage (1 porter for every 2 clients)
    • Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance, and medications for all staff
    • Round-trip airfare between Kathmandu/Manthali and Lukla
    • Trip completion certificate
    • A farewell dinner on the last night in Nepal
    • All administrative expenses and government taxes
    Excluded
    • Meals (lunch and dinner) in Kathmandu
    • International flight fare and airport departure tax
    • Any beverages including bottled and boiled water
    • Travel insurance along with high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage
    • Tips to trekking staff and driver
    • Nepal Entry Visa (Visa can be acquired easily after your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu with a fee of USD 50 for 30 days visa and USD 125 for 90 days visa)
    • Personal Trekking gear and equipment
    • Any expenses other than the Price Include section
    Useful Info

    Trekking Difficulty

    The Gokyo to Everest Base Camp trek falls under the difficult category as the trekkers will be climbing above the altitude of 5,000 metres. If you’re physically fit, you’re good to go. Otherwise, the trek may be strenuous for you. The unpredictable climate changes also make this trek challenging. You should start swimming, jogging and exercise before you decide to come on this trek. 

    Lukla Flight Information 

    During the high-demand periods, such as March, April, May, October, and November, flights to Lukla are redirected to Ramechhap/Manthali due to increased air traffic. This change requires travellers to embark on a scenic 5 to 6-hour road journey from Kathmandu to reach the alternative departure point. However, during the quieter off-peak months of January, February, June, July, August, September, and December, flights to Lukla are typically operated directly from Kathmandu. The Everest region trek may be affected by bad weather conditions; it can be clearly said that the flight to Lukla may get cancelled due to runway problems, air traffic problems, and bad weather. The trekkers are requested to manage two/ three days extra so that the cancelled day can be covered up.

    Accommodation and Meals

    Accommodation along the Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trek typically consists of cosy guesthouses, lodges, or tea houses that offer a comfortable place to rest after a day of trekking. These accommodations are situated in the picturesque villages along the trekking route. Keep in mind that accommodation standards may vary from one place to another, and during busy seasons, it's a good idea to book your accommodation in advance if possible. Be prepared for basic facilities and shared amenities.

    At the guesthouses along the trekking route, you'll be delighted to discover a diverse array of food choices to cater to various tastes and preferences. The menu options encompass traditional Nepali dishes like daal bhat (a hearty combination of rice and lentils), as well as bread, eggs, potatoes, noodles, nourishing soups, delectable pasta, and delightful pastries. To support your acclimatization process, we recommend opting for vegetarian meals during your journey. Garlic-rich dishes are abundant on the menu, as garlic is believed to aid in acclimatization to higher altitudes. Plus, with every meal, you'll be treated to one complimentary hot drink, which includes a selection of coffee, hot chocolate, tea, or hot lemon drinks. If you desire an extra hot beverage or perhaps a soda, you can easily purchase these separately.

    Note: You will have to focus on more fluid consumption because you need to stay hydrated.

    Travel Insurance

    Gokyo to Everest Base Camp is a highly challenging trek as we will be climbing through high altitudes, so travel insurance is highly recommended. Insurance companies offer policies based on the altitude that you will be tackling during your trip. You should make sure that the travel insurance policy covers emergency health services, heli rescue and evacuation up to the highest elevation you will be trekking If you are visiting Nepal for the first time or you don’t know anything about insurance, you can easily communicate with us. We suggest some insurance companies based on the selections and experiences of our customers in the past. You are free to find the insurance company of your choice that provides the required coverage.  

    Best Season

    Spring and Autumn are the best seasons for the Gokyo to Everest Base Camp Trek due to their favourable weather conditions, trekking is possible in other seasons as well. However, the winter months (December to February) can be extremely cold, with limited visibility due to fog and snow. The monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall and is generally not recommended for trekking in the Everest region due to the risk of landslides and challenging trail conditions.

    • Spring (Pre-Monsoon): Best Months (March, April, and May)
    • Autumn (Post-Monsoon): Best Months: (September, October, and November)

    Electricity, Internet, ATM and Water

    Electricity

    In the lower-altitude villages (e.g., Lukla, Phakding, Namche Bazaar), electricity is available, and you can charge your devices in teahouses and lodges. However, power cuts and outages can occur, and you may need to pay extra for charging your devices in some places. As you ascend to higher altitudes, electricity becomes scarcer. In some remote villages and teahouses at higher altitudes, you may rely on solar power or generators, and charging may be limited or not available at all. It's advisable to carry power banks or spare batteries for your devices.

    Internet Access

    In lower-altitude villages like Lukla, Phakding, and Namche Bazaar, you can find Wi-Fi access in some teahouses and lodges, but it may be slow and unreliable. Many places offer paid Wi-Fi services and As you go higher, internet access becomes increasingly limited. At some point, you may not have any internet connectivity for several days. Be prepared for a digital detox during the trek.

    ATMs

    Lower Altitudes: Lukla and Namche are the places with ATMs, but they may not always be reliable. It's a good idea to carry enough cash (Nepali Rupees) from Kathmandu to cover your trek expenses.

    Water

    Safe Drinking Water: It's essential to stay hydrated during the trek. You can purchase bottled water at teahouses, but it can be expensive. To reduce plastic waste, consider using a water purification method, such as water purification tablets or a water filter, to treat tap or stream water. Trekkers often use a refillable water bottle and treat the water from teahouses or natural sources and Many teahouses offer boiled water for a small fee, which is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to stay hydrated.

    FAQs
    • The Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes trek is a popular trekking route in the Everest region of Nepal. It combines the stunning Gokyo Lakes with the iconic Everest Base Camp, offering trekkers a unique and diverse experience.

    • The duration of the trek can vary, but it typically takes around 15-18 days to complete. This includes both the ascent and descent, as well as acclimatization days.

    • The best time for the Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lake treks is during the pre-monsoon (spring) season from March to May and the post-monsoon (autumn) season from September to November. These months generally offer stable weather and clear skies.

    • This trek is considered moderately challenging. It involves long days of trekking at high altitudes, and some sections may be strenuous need to cross the high Chola Pass (5420m). Prior trekking experience and good physical fitness are recommended.

    • A new permit system has been implemented in Everest Region. You will no longer require a Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card.

      Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit:

      • This permit was introduced on October 1, 2018, replacing the TIMS Card.
      • It is collected directly by the local government of Khumbu and costs NPR 2000 per person for foreigners.
      • You cannot obtain this permit in Kathmandu. If you're flying to Lukla, you can get it there. If you're trekking from Jiri or Salleri, you can obtain it in Monjo.

      Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit:

      • This is an existing permit required for entry into the Sagarmatha National Park, which includes the Everest region.
      • You can obtain it either in Kathmandu at the Nepal Tourism Board Office or in Monjo at the Park Entrance Gate.
      • The cost for this permit is NPR 3000 per person.
      • Obtaining this permit at Monjo is the most convenient option.
    • Accommodation varies from basic teahouses to more comfortable lodges. The higher you ascend, the more basic the facilities become. It's advisable to bring a sleeping bag for added comfort and warmth.

    • Packing essentials include warm clothing, a sleeping bag, comfortable trekking boots, a good-quality backpack, a trekking pole, a down jacket, rain gear, a sleeping bag, necessary toiletries, a water bottle, a water purifying  tablet , Headlamps etc

    • Proper acclimatization is crucial. Drink plenty of water, and listen to your body. Medications like Diamox can also help prevent altitude sickness, but consult with a healthcare professional before using them.

    • Safety is a top priority. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, stay hydrated, follow the advice of your guide, and be cautious while trekking near steep terrain or icy paths. It's essential to have travel insurance that covers high-altitude evacuation.

    Client Reviews
    • Noelle N
      Noelle NFranceDec 01, 2023

      Gokyo Lakes & Everest Base Camp - Amazing experience!

      Overall our experience with Iconic Holiday Nepal was amazing! We did a trek in the Sagarmatha National Park, going through the Gokyo Lakes and then passing by Everest Base Camp. The day-by-day itinerary and program were really on point and what we wished for. Everything went great and as planned! When we arrived we were warmly welcomed and picked up, it was all very smooth from beginning to end, during the trek but also before and after. Our trek crew (guide with porter) were incredible, very knowledgeable, professional, friendly and caring. The team around the whole experience was great and very responsive. If we go back to Nepal we would definitely do with Iconic Holiday again and we can only highly recommend. Thank you so much for making this trip unforgettable, and the great service!!

      TripAdvisor
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