Everest Base Camp to Gokyo Lake Trek– 20 days
The journey from Everest Base Camp to Gokyo Lake stands out as an exceptional adventure, weaving through breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and glacial wonders.
The Trail Begins:
Setting out from the legendary Everest Base Camp, nestled at the foot of the world’s tallest peak, Mount Everest (8848m), the trek to Gokyo Lake promises an unforgettable experience. The adventure begins with a descent from Everest Base Camp through the Khumbu Glacier, leading trekkers through the vibrant Sherpa village of Dingboche, where the warm hospitality and cultural richness of the region can be savored.
Breathtaking Vistas:
As the trail winds its way through rocky paths and rhododendron forests, trekkers are greeted by breathtaking panoramas of Himalayan giants such as Lhotse (8516m), Nuptse (7861m), and Ama Dablam (6812m). The pristine beauty of the region is further accentuated by the turquoise waters of Dudh Koshi River, which accompanies trekkers along their journey.
Gokyo Valley and Its Jewels:
Upon reaching Gokyo Valley, trekkers are rewarded with a truly surreal experience. Gokyo Lake, a series of glacial lakes perched amidst towering peaks, mirrors the sky above and reflects the breathtaking surroundings. The serenity of these lakes, surrounded by Cho Oyu (8188m) and Gokyo Ri (5360m), offers a perfect opportunity for reflection and rejuvenation.
Gokyo Ri Summit:
The ascent to Gokyo Ri, a vantage point that offers one of the most stunning panoramic views in the region, is an absolute highlight of the journey. As the sun’s first rays touch the snow-capped peaks, trekkers are treated to a mesmerizing spectacle that includes Everest itself, along with Makalu (8481m) and countless other peaks. The climb is physically demanding, but the sense of accomplishment and the visual feast awaiting at the summit make every step worthwhile.
Cultural Encounters:
Throughout the trek, trekkers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Sherpa culture, passing through villages like Namche Bazaar and Khumjung. These encounters provide insight into the resilient way of life in the high Himalayas, and trekkers may visit monasteries and stupas that have stood for centuries, showcasing the spiritual heart of the region.
A Complete Experience: The Everest Base Camp to Gokyo Lake trek is a complete package for adventurers seeking a blend of natural beauty, physical challenge, cultural exploration, and a profound sense of accomplishment. The route offers a glimpse into the diverse landscapes that Nepal’s Khumbu region has to offer, from rugged terrains to tranquil lakes, from soaring peaks to charming villages.
Preparation and Considerations: Embarking on this journey requires careful preparation. Acclimatization is key, and trekkers should be equipped with proper gear and guided by experienced professionals to ensure a safe and fulfilling experience. The trekking season typically spans from spring to autumn, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures.
Read here – some useful travel information on Nepal
In conclusion, the trek from Everest Base Camp to Gokyo Lake is a remarkable odyssey that encompasses the best of the Himalayas. It’s an opportunity to forge a deep connection with nature, to challenge oneself, and to witness the splendor of Nepal’s mountainous terrain. As trekkers navigate their way from Everest’s iconic base camp to the serene Gokyo Lake, they embark on a journey that leaves an indelible mark on their hearts and memories.
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Trip Highlights
- Majestic view of Mt. Everest and surrounded by lofty Himalayan peaks
- Ascend to Everest Base Camp with our experienced team of guides, crew and porters
- Climb Kala Patthar(5545 m) for unrivaled views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and surrounding peaks
- Cross one of the highest pass Chola pass 95420 m)
- Spectacular view of Gokyo lake
- Acclimatize safely on a well-paced trek
- Experience the wonder of Thyangboche monastery beneath the shadow of Ama Dablam
- Breathtaking mountain flight to Lukla
- Immerse yourself in the Sherpa lifestyle , culture and tradition
You take an early morning flight to Lukla. After a short break trek to Phakding and enter into the home of the Sherpa community perched in the nook and corner of the valleys known as Khumbu. After Phakding the trail gradually climbs to Jorsale and climb the steep but gradual trail to Namche Bazar. Spend two nights in Namche Bazaar. While at Namche Bazar visit the villages at Thame (12,500ft/3811m) and Khumjung. Thame village was the original home of the famous climber Tenzing Norgay who reached the summit of Mt. Everest for the first time in human history with Sir Edmund Hillary. The extra days at Namche allow you to acclimatize in the increasingly thin air as you go up higher. After Namche Bazar, the trail drops down to the Dudh Koshi River. Cross the small hamlet at Punki Thanka and climb the steep trail that becomes gradual as you reach Thayngboche monastery. The trail from Thyangboche to the summer settlement of Dingboche is quite easy. The next day walk down Chukung valley; this is another easy day for acclimatization. Explore the area. There are several high viewpoints to see a panoramic view of the high mountain including the icefall at Amphulapcha. The base camp of Island peak is very close to Chukung village. It is one of the most popular trekking peaks.
There are another two nights at Dingboche (14,100 ft/ 4300 m). This extra day provides sufficient time to acclimatize your body. Lobouje is your second last stop on the way to Kalapattar and the base camp of Mt. Everest. Depending upon weather and your physical condition you stop at Gorakshep for an overnight or go direct to climb Kalapattar to see them close up a stunning view of Mt.Everest. If you are energetic and feel good take time to visit the base camp of Mt. Everest.
The high point in this trek is the majestic view of Mt. Everest and surrounded by lofty Himalayan peaks in the backdrop of deep blue sky. The grandeur of nature that you see would be one of the most memorable in your life. Next in your schedule is to visit Gokyo lake on the other side.
Trek to Gokyo Lake by crossing the high alpine pass at Chola is one of the best challenges in the trek. You cross Cho-la pass (17,777 ft/ 5420 m) and descent steep path to Gokyo Lake. Gokyo Valley has one of the highest settlements in the Himalaya of Nepal. Gokyo Lake itself is a very popular trekking destination. There are series of emerald green lakes along the Ngozumpa Glacier. Take a short hike up to the viewpoint at Gokyo Ri (17,575 ft/ 5357m). The steep climb takes about two hours to reach the summit. Usually, you start early, before dawn, to experience the stunning sunrise view from the summit. The sunrise view of four 26,240 ft/8,000-meter peaks - Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu is mind-blowing. On a clear day, the image of the white snow-covered peaks reflected in the aqua blue water of Gokyo Lakes is awesome. Many trekkers find this a very unique experience. Return back to Namchebazar through Phortse and walk down to Jorasale and follow the trail along Dudh Kosi river to Mongo, Phakding and finally reach Lukla to take a flight to Kathmandu.
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Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu. Hotel accommodation (BB)
Upon arrival you are met by our representative. You are welcomed with a garland. Transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 02: In Kathmandu - Free day on your own. Hotel accommodation (BB)
This is a free day. You may take a city sightseeing tour in the morning. Please book in advance. In the afternoon you may do last minute shopping or rent trekking equipment. There will be a trek briefing in the evening at the hotel. You are introduced with your trek guide and the actual departure time will be given to you. There will be a short talk about the trek, altitude sickness and other logistics of the trek. If you have any last-minute question you can ask in this talk program.
Day 03: Fly to Lukla. Trek to Phakding (8603 ft/2623 m) - Guest House lodge
All flights to Lukla are in the morning between 7 to 10am. Take early breakfast. We provide pickup transfer to the domestic terminal of the TIA airport. Twin otter aircraft are considered suitable for landing at the STOL airstrip at Lukla (9184 ft/2800 m). You find the landing a very exciting experience.
As soon as the flight takes off you get to see a long stretched of gleaming Himalayan range towards the northern horizon. It is a spectacular mountain flight in the world. You get to see the Himalayan range from such a close range.
Our trek staff and porters will meet you upon landing at a small Lukla airport. The staffs and porters will be with you for the duration of the trek. During a short break your guide and porters organize to carry your baggage. Trek to Monjo. Stay overnight in Monjo. (3-hour walk)
Day 04: Trek to Namche Bazar (11,300 ft/ 3450 m) - Guesthouse lodge
After three hours of following the banks of the Dudh Kosi River you come to a spectacular suspension bridge, which marks the start of the climb up to Namche. Near the halfway point up the hill view of Everest (29,028’/8,850m) and Lhotse (27,916/8,511m) come into sight. Namche bazaar is the most prosperous and largest village (now a town) in the Khumbu valley. It was a traditional trading centre between Tibet and Khumbu. A market is held every Saturday. The wares on display include grains and vegetables, tennis shoes and trinkets as well as hand woven aprons and Tibetan boots. (5-hour walk)
Thamserku (21,806 ft/ 6,648 m) and Kwangde (20,417 ft/6,224 m) loom in the east and west of Namche. The Khumbila (18,729 ft/5,707m) peak dominates the skyline to the north – behind Namche. Khumbila is considered a sacred mountain by the inhabitants of Namche and the entire villagers of Khumbu valley.
Day 05: In Namche Bazar (Acclimatization day) - Guesthouse lodge
On this day visit Syangboche, Khunde (12,700 ft/3871 m) and Khumjung (12,430 ft/3789 m) villages. These villages are closer to Namche. From Syangboche you get to see a close-up
view of Amadablam. You may visit the Everest View Hotel that was built in 1979. It is a luxury hotel. You may stop for tea or refreshment and pay directly. At Khunde there is a hospital built by Sir Edmund Hillary. It is run by the Himalayan Trust founded by Sir Edmund Hillary. In Khumjung, there is a relic said to be the skull of Yeti, the legendary ‘abominable snowman.’ It is an anecdotal creature said to exist in the Himalaya like Scottish Loch Ness. There is also a school run by the foundation. Khunde and Khumjung are very neat Sherpa villages. Return back to Namche before dusk.
Day 06: Trek to Thyangboche (12,670 ft /3863 m)-Guesthouse lodge
From Namche you climbed up to the ridge. Before descending you get to see another view of Mt. Everest flanked by Lhotse and Nuptse as well as Ama Dablam (21, 9641/6,696m) and Kangtaiga (22,235’/6,779m); two of the spectacular peaks in Nepal. The trail from the ridge descends to the Dudkoshi River. Cross the river at Phungithanga (10,665 ft/ 3251m) and climb the short and steep trail to Thyangboche Monastery through rhododendron forest. The climb becomes gradual as the trail follows the side of the hill to the saddle at the top of the hill where Thyangboche Monastery is located. Even though the new monastery was built after the old one was burned down it is one of the magnificent sites in the world. The views are dominated by Ama Dablam, Kangtaiga and the entire massif of Everest – Lhotse and Nuptse. (5 ½ hour walk)
Day 07: Trek to Dingboche (14,472 ft/4,412 m) - Guesthouse lodge
From Thyangboche you descend gradually through rhododendron forest to cross Imja Khola (river). After crossing the river climb gradually the uphill trail to Pangboche (12,792 ft/ 3,900 m). There is an interesting Gompa above the main village. At this point, you are at a spectacular viewpoint. Stop at Pangboche to visit the monastery and take lunch. In the afternoon you continue to walk the trail to the summer settlement of Dingboche (14,300 ft/4,360 m). For acclimatization Dingboche is better located than Pheriche where there is a Himalayan Rescue Aid Post. (5-hour walk)
Day 08: In Dingboche (14,472 ft/4,412 m). Visit Chukung valley - Guesthouse Lodge
This is rest and acclimatization day. The day gives you time to explore Chukung valley or climb small hills to get better views of the surrounding peaks. This extra day also helps your body to properly acclimatize to the thin air as you move higher elevation.
It is an easy day to walk to Chukung (15,514 ft/4,730 m) – 2 hour. The route gradually ascends to the few scattered stone huts that make up the settlement. As you walk towards the valley you get to see ever-changing views of the beautiful Ama Dablam peak. To the north you find the view of the massive walls of the Nuptse ridge and south face of Lhotse. In the east, there is a high ice wall of Amphulapcha. Return back to Dingboche. (5-hour walk)
Day 09: Trek to Lobouje (16,105 ft/4,910 m) - Guesthouse lodge
Climb the ridge and contour around the base of the Khumbu glacier. The trail past by Pheriche Walk to Thugla (Dhugla) situated at (15,088 ft/4,600 m). You get great view of Cholatse (21,129 ft/6,442 m) across the valley. After lunch makes a short and steep climb to the terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. From this point, you get a stunning view. Continue to traverse along the west lateral moraine of the glacier. The landscape changes to stark and rugged beauty. Stop at Lobuche for an overnight stay. There are couples of lodges tucked in a narrow meadow between the glacier and the Lobuche peak (20,192 ft/6,156m). Tawache and Nuptse peaks look spectacular from Lobuche. The tower is located almost 2 km directly overhead. (5 hours walk)
Day 10: Trek to Kalapattar (18,187 ft/ 5,545 m) and to Gorakshep (17,344 ft/5,288 m) - Guesthouse lodge
Walk slowly at your own pace as you continue to gain elevation. The trail along the north bank of Humbug glacial moraine has a long field with boulder. Stop at Gorakshep for lunch and climb gradually to the summit of Kalapattar. At the summit you get to see a panoramic 180-degree view of the entire range of Mt. Everest. You can also see Everest Base Camp just down on the other side. The view from this height is very impressive. It is more than you can imagine. (3 hours)
Huge ice glacier flows all around. You can see Pumori (2,435 ft/7145 m), Lingtren (21,966 ft/6697 m) and Khumbatse (21,723 ft/6623 m) peaks separates you from Tibet that lies just over the Lho La pass. You can see the huge rock of Changtse (24,764 ft/ 7550 m) peak in Tibet. Of all the peaks the tall majestic Mt. Everest (29,021 ft/ 8848 m) stands there taller than anything there. It gives an imposing view. This is the roof of the world. Return the same way back to Gorakshep takes about 2 hour. (5-hour walk).
Day 11 Visit Everest Base Camp and Trek to Zhongla (16,105 ft/4,910 m) - Guesthouse lodge
From Gorakshep there is a short steep descent trail down the lateral moraine to the Khumbu glacier. Once you are on the glacier the route meanders through the ice buffs that follows well worn trail laid down by the yaks. Yaks are used by local people to supply food and climbing materials to the base camp. The traverse is about four hours to reach the base camp situated at the elevation of 5,360 m (17,044 ft). From the base camp, you get to see Khumbu Ice Fall. This is the route through which all climbers have to pass to reach the summit of Mt. Everest. It is the treacherous and most difficult part of the route to the summit. You retrace the trail back to Lobuche and further down to Zhonglha. (7-hour walk)
Day 12: Cross Cho-la (pass at 17,177 ft/5420 m) and trek to Dragnak (4765m) - Guest house lodge
It is a long day climb to the pass. Usually the pass is covered by snow. You need crampon to walk steadily to the pass as the trail is slippery. Descend to Dragnak. (8 hour walk)
Day 13: Trek to Gokyo Laka (15,580 ft/4750m) - Guesthouse lodge
This is an easy day. You walk slowly to reach Gokyo. It is a high altitude Sherpa settlement beside one of the lake. There are many lakes along the left side of the Ngozumpa glacier. Gokyo and Luza down the valley are typical of the high seasonal settlements used by Sherpas for grazing livestock and growing barley and potatoes. (3-hour walk).
Day 14: Trek to Gokyo Ri (17,571 ft/ 5357m) and descend to Dole (13,776 ft/4200 m) - Guesthouse lodge
It is a tough day hike up the ridge above Gokyo Lake. You can get a spectacular view of the Mt. Everest (20,021 ft/8848 m), Nuptse (25,849 ft/7881 m), Lhotse (27,889 ft/8503 m) and Makalu (27,884 ft/8477m). Mt Makalu looms far in the east. You can see Ngozumpa Glacier – 609 meter below and Cho Oyu wall very close to the left; the trail from Chola-la (Chuguima Pass) is down to the right. Return back to Gokyo and descend to Dole. It is one of the most memorable days in the trek. (8 hours walk)
Day 15: Trek to Namche Bazar (11,300 ft/ 3445 m) & to Monjo - Guest house lodge (B/L/D)
You descend the trail further to Phortse Thanga (1 1/2 hour walk) and climb the steep trail to reach Mong-la. It has a beautiful view from there it takes another 1 ½ hour walk. Continue to walk down the trail gradually until Kyangjuma. Take a lunch break and walk to Namche Bazar (4 hours Descend to Monjo (2 ½ hour). (6 hour walk)
Day 16: Trek to Lukla (9184 ft/ 2800 m) - Guest house lodge
Descend to warmer climate of Dudh Koshi River. Walk a short distance down the valley to Jorsale (2-hour). The route continues down Dudh Koshi river valley through the Sherpa villages of Benkar, Phakding, Chaurikharka and climbs a long trail for about 3-hour to reach Lukla. (5-hour walk)
Day 17: Fly to Kathmandu. In Kathmandu - Hotel accommodation (BB)
After breakfast take your flight to Kathmandu. The flights are scheduled for early morning between 7 to 11 am. In late autumn normally in the early morning visibility is low at the airport in Kathmandu and in Lukla later in the morning there is a chance of high wind.
The flight take off is as spectacular as the landing. The plane roars down the 1800 foot airstrip and as it approaches the edge that has a sharp drop the flight takes sharp upward to gain altitude. Once in the air, you get the panoramic view all the way to Langtang. The flight duration is 40 minutes. Upon arrival at Kathmandu TIA domestic airport, our representative will meet you and provide transfer to your hotel. You have a free full day in Kathmandu to shop, relax, take a sauna or simply wander around.
Day 18: In Kathmandu - Hotel accommodation (BB)
This is an extra day in case of flight delay due to weather or technical condition.
Day 19: In Kathmandu - Hotel accommodation (BB)
Full day sightseeing tour of Patan and Bhaktapur. You will be accompanied by an English speaking tour guide. This extra day in Kathmandu is always useful for contingency due to flight to and from Lukla.
Day 20: Depart from Kathmandu
Our representative will meet you to bid farewell with Khada (special honor- scarf). He will provide transfer to the airport.
NOTES
Trek schedule: Above itinerary and schedule is guideline only. It may change due to physical condition, weather, logistics and other ground condition. Additional expenses due to such changes should be paid directly.
Accommodation during the trek: In the lodge to lodge trek accommodation are simple. Most rooms has double bed without an attached toilet and heating facility. Most of the lodges have common bathrooms. In places like Gorakshep and Lobuje where rooms are limited in peak tourist season you may have to do with dormitory. The Standard of accommodation varies from place to place.
Meals : Meals are served in the attached restaurant; it is the common area for the residents. The quality and standard of the meals also vary from place to place and from lodge to lodge. Most lodges serve simple, hot and hygienic meals. The guaranteed meals are local staple dal-bhat (lentil and rice) and noodle soup. Coffee and tea are available. The food menu is long and there are varieties but it is difficult to predict if all meals can be prepared as expected. Like yak stead is usually are buff (meat from water buffalo) steak. In a group it is best to order food in advance; your trek guide will coordinate. It is best to limit your meal order to couple of items so it can be prepared at the same time for all.
About the flight to and from Lukla: The flight is subject to delay due to weather and technical condition. In such a situation, we adjust the schedule so you can complete the trek. It is also possible to use small 5 seat helicopter. The use of a helicopter cost an additional US$350 per person for each way. The other alternative airport is Ramechap. This airport is about an 8-hour drive from Kathmandu. In this case you have to stay overnight at Ramechap to take early morning flight to Lukla or vice versa. If a non-scheduled flight can be managed to Ramechap you fly direct to Ramechap and take helicopter flight on the same day to Lukla or the nearest trek starting point. In such a situation, you may arrive trek start point late in the afternoon.
Refund of unused service: There is no refund for any unused service once the program begin. If you return early irrespective of any condition cost of extra hotel accommodation beside what is included in the cost is to be paid directly before departure.
Delay: If the trip is delayed due to unforeseen circumstances and condition beyond our control the cost incurred during the delay is not included.
Single Supplement: Request for single supplement is subject to confirmation by respective hotel. In the trek, it is difficult to accommodate single supplement due to constraint in the available room during peak season.
Tipping: It has become customary to expect tips by the trek staffs and porters. The trip leader or trek guide gives guideline to the member who wishes to contribute to a group tip for local trek staffs and porters at the end of the trek. It is voluntary but somehow expected. Trek staffs and porters look forward to work in the trek with expectation of tips. Actually they play a major role in the success of your trek despite difficult condition. It is an important act as you are directly helping them and their families. Normally tips for a lead guide is US$15 -$20 per day and assistant guides or Sherpa US$10 – $15 per staff per day. For porter it is US$5 to $10 per porter per day. On hard and strenuous treks you allow proportionately higher amount depending upon the condition.
- Physical fitness: Trekking in Nepal is for physically fit and active people in good health. Because all the treks in the mountain go up and down the hill several times a day. The elevation rises as you move to your ultimate destination. If you enjoy walking and not fussy on comfort than any trek in Nepal is good for you.
More information for trek preparation will be provided once you sign up for the trip.
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COST-Private Trip: Net in US dollar from day 1 to 20 as per program
Group Paying
- 3-5 pax US$ 1965 per person
- 6-9 pax US$ 1480 per person
- 10-15pax US$ 1800 per person
- 16+ pax US$1720 per person
- Single room supplement US$250 per person
Cost Includes:
- All meals (Breakfast, lunch and dinner) and normal standard accommodation in lodges during the trek ( 15 days lodge trek)
- Service of trek guide and Sharpa assistant above 6 persons in a group
- Porters to carry personal baggage (14 kg per person)
- Accident insurance for staffs and porters
- Scheduled Airfare: Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu
- National park entrance permit and trekking permit (TIMS)
- Arrival and departure transfers.
- Sightseeing according to the program
- Hotel accommodation using 3 star category in Kathmandu on BB as per program ( 5 nights double sharing)
Cost Excludes:
- Personal warm clothing, down jacket, boots (walking shoes) and sleeping bag
- Personal accident and health insurance
- Emergency evacuation and medical expense
- Alcoholic and bottled beverage, mineral water, laundry, and tips
- Use of unscheduled flight, helicopter (sharing US$340 per person) and rescue flights
- Medical and emergency rescue and evacuation expenses
- Any other services and expenses that are not specifically mentioned in the program.
- Expenses due to flight delay, sickness other contingencies
- Any other services that are not specifically mentioned in the program
*Government fees and airfares are subject to change without prior notice.
Departure: Anytime as per your choice of date
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