Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes is an extraordinary Himalayan adventure that perfectly blends the legendary Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) with the breathtaking beauty of the Gokyo Lakes. This unique journey explores both the Khumbu and Gokyo Valleys, offering dramatic mountain scenery, pristine turquoise glacial lakes, and some of the finest panoramic viewpoints in the Everest region. This spectacular trek begins in Kathmandu, followed by a thrilling scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. From Lukla, the trail follows the classic Everest Base Camp route, passing through vibrant Sherpa villages, suspension bridges, and iconic landmarks such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, Dingboche, and Lobuche. After reaching the legendary Everest Base Camp and hiking to Kala Patthar, the best viewpoint in the Everest region, the adventure intensifies with the crossing of the high-altitude Cho La Pass. This challenging section rewards trekkers with dramatic alpine scenery and a true sense of Himalayan adventure. Beyond the pass, the trail leads into the serene Gokyo Valley, famous for its turquoise glacial lakes and peaceful landscapes. A hike to Gokyo Ri offers breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Lhotse. The return journey descends through Machhermo and Dole, eventually reaching Namche Bazaar before flying back to Kathmandu from Lukla.
Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Valley Trek - 17 days
- Duration17 Days
- Difficulty Level Technical Challenging
- Altitude 5,550 m Kalapathar
- Trip Type High Altitude Trekking
- Start and End Kathmandu - Kathmandu
- Best Time Mar-May, Oct -Nov
- Immerse in the beautiful scenery as you fly from Kathmandu to Lukla
- Witness the divine beauty in the turquoise-blue Gokyo Lakes
- Explore the vibrant culture and traditions of the Sherpa people
- Explore the vistas of Choyu, Makalu, Nuptse, Lhotse, Everest
- Beautiful hike to Kala Patthar (5,550 m) and Gokyo Ri (5,357 m)
- Prayer flags, suspension bridges, rhododendrons, pine and juniper
- Explore the beautiful Khumbu Icefall and Experience breathtaking mountain views from Cho La Pass
- Beautiful vistas of mountains from the planet’s highest hotel - Everest View Hotel
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.
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
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.
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.
The fairly even trek, taking around 5 hours, to Tengboche, taking us past many valleys before arriving at Kenjoma, where it connects with the path from Khumjung just before passing many Mani stones (stones inscribed with sacred Buddhist prayers). The views of Everest and Mt. Ama Dablam are nothing short of breath-taking along this section of the trek. We pass the small village of Sanasa from where the path descends to Phunki Thanga (3250m) before a steep ascent through pine forests while passing more Mani stones as the trail hugs the slope before reaching Tengboche (3855m).
Early in the morning, we take our time to explore the Tengboche monastery. After breakfast, we leave Tengboche village and descend to the Imja River. Trekking through Pangboche village, we walk past fluttering prayer flags and stupas. Further, it's an uphill climb via terraces to Dingboche village, which is also known as the Summer Valley.
Perched at 4360m, Dingboche is a key acclimatization stop on the Everest Base Camp trek, helping trekkers adjust to the altitude and prevent sickness. This serene Sherpa village, surrounded by the grandeur of the Himalayas, offers a peaceful atmosphere for rest and relaxation, with cozy teahouses, coffee shops, and limited trekking supplies. After a warm breakfast, we’ll embark on an acclimatization hike to Nangkartsang Peak (5,083m/16,677 ft), one of the most stunning viewpoints on the trek. The gradual ascent rewards you with 360-degree views of towering peaks, including Ama Dablam, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Nuptse, and more. Don’t forget essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and your camera to capture the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes on this unforgettable journey.
After a warm breakfast, we begin our trek as the sunrise illuminates Mount Ama Dablam. The trail ascends to Thukla (4,620m) for lunch, offering stunning views of Cholatse, Taboche, Dzongla Lake, and the Khumbu Glacier. Post-lunch, we visit the Thukla Pass Memorial, honoring climbers who lost their lives in the mountains, before continuing to Lobuche (4,910m). This high-altitude stop rewards trekkers with breathtaking views of Nuptse, Lobuche East, Lingtren, and Pumori, along with Sherpa hospitality. End the day with a golden sunset over Mount Nuptse, marking another unforgettable moment on your EBC trek.
Today is the highlight of the EBC trek—standing at the base of the world’s highest mountain. After an early breakfast in Lobuche, we ascend past the Italian Pyramid research center, soaking in views of Pumori, Nuptse, and Lingtren, before reaching Gorak Shep for lunch. The trail to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) offers breathtaking vistas of the Khumbu Glacier, Icefall, and surrounding peaks, including Everest, Nuptse, and Pumori. Reaching base camp is a moment of pure joy and personal triumph, surrounded by the grandeur of the Himalayas. After taking in the awe-inspiring views, we retrace our steps to Gorak Shep for rest and celebration, marking an unforgettable milestone in your trekking journey.
An early morning start and a 1.5-hour trek lead us to Kala Patthar taking advantage of the spectacular array of colors at sunrise on Everest and other towering peaks. After clicking madly we put our cameras down before heading back to Gorekshep for a well-deserved breakfast before continuing on to Dzolgla. In total the trek from Gorak Shep to Lobuche takes about 2 hours followed by another 2-hour trek that takes us back to Dzongla. Today we will have trekked for approximately 7 hours and after this mammoth effort will sleep soundly at Dzongla which is the only option before reaching Chola Pass.
Early morning after breakfast, we start our walk from Dzongla to the Cho-la pass. The walk over the glacier is an enjoyable experience if we can make the trip during the best season otherwise excess snow makes it impossible to cross the pass. As the darkness returns we trek down to Dragnag to spend the night there.
A relatively short trek of around 2 to 3 hours today takes us to Gokyo where we stop for lunch. The rest of the day is spent exploring the Gokyo Valley and if time permits visit the glaciers and turquoise lakes of the Gokyo Valley. During our trek, we are gifted with some magnificent views of several massive soaring Himalayan peaks, such as Everest, Cho-Oyu (8188m 6th highest in the world), Lhotse Makalu and others. Tonight we stay at Gokyo.
An early morning start sees us climb Gokyo Ri (5333m) to take in a jaw-dropping view of the enormous Ngozumpa glacier (36km long), and views of the upper Gokyo Valley and the incredible peaks of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Nuptse, Cho-Oyu, and Gychung Kang. We will then have breakfast and descend to Dole (4200m) where we will spend the night.
Today is down-hill sailing as we pass through the Sherpa villages of Dole with the mountains towering behind us. We then head to the famous Buddhist town of Namche bazaar alive with its abundance of Sherpa culture and vibrant atmosphere where trekkers share their stories. Tonight we stay at Namche Bazaar.
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.
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.
- All (international and domestic) airport transfers on a tourist vehicle
- Accommodation in a three star Hotel for 2 nights in Kathmandu - including breakfast.
- Twin-sharing guest house accommodation during the trek in the Everest Region.
- All your standard meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
- 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) | Wt limit 9kg per client
- Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance, and medications for all staff
- Round-trip airfare between Kathmandu/Manthali and Lukla
- Trip completion certificate
- All administrative expenses and government taxes
- Meals (lunch and dinner) in Kathmandu
- International flight fare and airport departure tax
- Nepal Entry Visa | Tourist Visa
- Travel insurance along with high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage
- Personal Trekking gear and equipments | Down Jackets, Sleeping Bag(-20), Trekking Boot
- Tips to trekking staff and driver
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.
Note: You will have to focus on more fluid consumption because you need to stay hydrated.
Travel Insurance
Gokyo with 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 EBC with Gokyo Valley 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: ( Mid September, October, and November)
Q1. What is the Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes trek?
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.
Q2. How long does the trek take?
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.
Q3. What is the best time to do this trek?
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.
Q4. How difficult is the trek?
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.
Q5. What permits are required for the trek?
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.
Q6. What is the accommodation like along the trail?
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.
Q7. What should I pack for the trek?
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
Q8. How can I prepare for high altitudes and prevent altitude sickness?
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.
Q9. Are there any safety considerations for the trek?
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.
![Noelle N]()
Noelle NFranceDec 01, 2023Gokyo 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!!
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