Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass
Breathtaking adventure through spectacular scenery, the serene Gokyo Lakes and eventually the base camp of Everest
Embark on the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes, renowned for its captivating turquoise lakes and the iconic Cho La Pass. This journey guides us through the prominent landmarks of the Khumbu region, surrounded by majestic mountains, amiable Sherpas, vibrant monasteries, Namche Bazaar, and the scenic Sagarmatha National Park, ultimately reaching the base of Everest. The trek, progressing to the world’s tallest mountain, unveils breathtaking panoramas from renowned viewpoints like Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar, offering stunning views of the Khumbu Icefall. In essence, trekking to Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes promises a lifelong experience, showcasing captivating sights of Mt. Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Nuptse, Amadablam, Pumori, and Tengboche Monastery—the largest in Nepal’s Khumbu region.
Tailored for adventurous hikers seeking a challenging path away from the usual routes, this itinerary is perfect. However, if you are a novice trekker in good health and average fitness, the 16-day Everest Base Camp Trek might be suitable. Alternatively, experienced trekkers with limited time can opt for the 14-day Everest Base Camp Short Trek.
- Explore the foothills of the world’s highest mountain, Mt. Everest.
- Immerse in the beauty of the shimmering turquoise lakes in the Gokyo Valley.
- Get lost in the panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse from Kala Patthar.
- Savor the magnificent views of the Khumbu Icefall.
- Cross the nerve-racking Cho La Pass.
- Get religious in the colorful monasteries in the backyards of the Sherpas.
Day | Itinerary | Walking / Hiking |
1 | Arrival in Kathmandu | |
2 | Kathmandu: Sightseeing and trek Preparation | |
3 | Fly to Lukla, trek to Phakding | 3-4 hrs |
4 | Phakding to Namche Bazaar | 5-6 hrs |
5 | Acclimatization Day – Namche Bazaar | |
6 | Namche Bazaar to Phortse Thanga | 5-6 hrs |
7 | Phortse Thanga to Machhermo | 4-5 hrs |
8 | Machhermo to Gokyo | 4-5 hrs |
9 | Gokyo Valley: Acclimatization Day – Optional Hike to Gokyo Ri | 3-4 hrs |
10 | Gokyo to Thagnak | 4-5 hrs |
11 | Thagnak to Cho La pass to Dzongla | 7-8 hrs |
12 | Dzongla to Lobuche | Add New |
13 | Lobuche to Gorak Shep , visit Everest Base Camp | 2-3 hrs |
14 | Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar to Pheriche | 6-7 hrs |
15 | Pheriche to Namche Bazaar | 6-7 hrs |
16 | Namche Bazaar to Lukla | 6-7 hrs |
17 | Fly to Kathmandu | 40 min Flight |
18 | Final departure |
Day 01 : Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon landing at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, a Himalayan Glacier representative will warmly welcome us and facilitate our transfer to the hotel. Following check-in, there’s an option to rest or visit the Himalayan Glacier office. Later in the evening, a welcome dinner awaits at a traditional Nepali restaurant, offering an opportunity to savor authentic Nepali cuisine accompanied by a brief cultural program. The night will be spent in Kathmandu.
Maximum Altitude : 1,350m/4,429ft
Accommodation : Hotel and Dinner
After breakfast, embark on a guided tour to explore some of Kathmandu’s most historical and spiritual landmarks, all designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites. The itinerary includes visits to the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the renowned ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambhunath), and the colossal Buddhist shrine (Bouddhanath), one of the largest stupas globally. Around noon, undergo equipment checks with the climbing leader, acquaint yourself with fellow participants, and engage in a trip discussion at Himalayan Glacier’s office. The night will be spent in Kathmandu.
Maximum Altitude : 1,350m/4,429ft
Accommodation : Hotel
Meals : Breakfast
Day 03 : Fly to Lukla, trek to Phakding
The 40-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (9,186ft) treats us to one of the world’s most stunning air routes, surrounded by high mountain peaks. Upon landing in Lukla, the starting point of our trek, we meet our fellow crew members, organize and pack our belongings. The trek commences from Lukla, beginning with a gradual descent to Cheplung village, offering a glimpse of the sacred and unclimbed Mt. Khumbila (18,900 ft). Continuing our descent from Cheplung, we eventually reach Phakding, where we spend the night.
Maximum Altitude : 2,800m/9,187ft ( Flight : 40min Hiking: 3-4 hrs )
Accommodation : Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 04 : Phakding to Namche Bazaar
Traversing a picturesque pine forest, our journey leads us north through the Benkar valley. We cross the Dudh Koshi River, passing Chumoa and reaching Monjo, the gateway to Everest National Park. Crossing a suspension bridge, the trail continues past Jorsale village, following the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers. An invigorating steep ascent then brings us to the heart of Sherpa culture – Namche Bazaar. About an hour away from Namche, weather permitting, we may catch glimpses of the majestic Mt. Everest and Mt. Lhotse. The night will be spent in Namche Bazaar.
Maximum Altitude : 3,438m/11,280ft. ( Hiking: 5-6 hrs / Travel Distance : 11 km )
Accommodation : Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 05 : Acclimatization Day – Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazaar offers an array of activities for acclimatization, making it an ideal location to spend a day. As the primary center of the Khumbu region, Namche boasts government offices, ATMs, Internet cafes, shops, restaurants, and a vibrant market. Our guides can lead us to explore the authentic charm of Namche Bazaar. A hike to Sagarmatha National Park provides a sunrise panorama and stunning views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kongde, and more. For those interested in a day hike, the trek to Khumjung village (12,401 ft) unveils a beautiful Sherpa settlement. While exploring Namche Bazaar, we immerse ourselves in traditional Sherpa life, visit Khumjung Hillary School, and appreciate the unique flora and fauna at this altitude. The night will be spent in Namche Bazaar.
Maximum Altitude : 3,790m/12,475ft ( Hiking: 3-4 hrs )
Accommodation : Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 06 : Namche Bazaar to Phortse Thanga
Our trek takes us up the Khumjung hill, and as we descend to the east of the village, we enter a broad valley leading to the Dudh Koshi. Heading north from there, our guide will choose the optimal trail from the two available options. At an elevation of 3973 m, there’s a chorten on the ridge top, descending from Mt. Khumbila (5761 m). Our journey includes a visit to Mohang, the birthplace of the re-incarnated Lama of Rongbuk Monastery in Tibet, credited with introducing Buddhism to the Khumbu region of Nepal. The trail descends through a series of steep switchbacks on a sandy slope to reach the Dudh Koshi. Our overnight stay is in Phortse Tanga, situated near the river.
Maximum Altitude : 3,680m/12,074ft ( Hiking: 5-6 hrs / Travel Distance : 6 km )
Accommodation : Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 07 : Phortse Thanga to Machhermo
Starting from Phortse Thanga, our trek involves an uphill climb to Machhermo. The trail meanders through a rhododendron forest, offering a picturesque walk, and passes by a waterfall before reaching Tongba Village. The ascent continues as we traverse through Dole, Labarma, and Luza villages, with a notable Chhorten marking our approach to Luza. Throughout the day’s journey, we will be accompanied by the Dudh Koshi River. Our resting place for the night is in Machhermo.
Maximum Altitude : 4,470m/14,666ft ( Hiking: 4-5 hrs / Travel Distance : 10 km)
Accommodation : Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 08 : Machhermo to Gokyo
Our day begins with a climb to a ridge, providing excellent views down the valley to Kangtaiga and upwards towards Cho Oyu (8153 m). As the valley widens, we pass through Phangkha, where a tragic avalanche claimed 40 lives in 1995. Descending to the riverbank, we then ascend the terminal moraine of the Ngazumpa Glacier on a steep trail. After crossing an iron bridge over a stream, the trail levels out, leading us past the first lake, Longpongo, situated at 4690 m. Here, we can observe lama footprints on a stone. Advancing to the second lake, Taboche Tsho, we are captivated by the shimmering turquoise blue water sparkling in the sun. A little further, we reach the third lake, with Gokyo village standing by its side and Cho-Oyu Mountain forming a spectacular backdrop. After lunch, we explore around the third lake, Dudh Pokhari, and spend the night in Gokyo.
Maximum Altitude : 4,800m/15,749ft ( Hiking: 4-5 hrs / Travel Distance : 7 km )
Accommodation : Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 09 : Gokyo Valley: Acclimatization Day – Optional Hike to Gokyo Ri
In the morning, we embark on a hike to Gokyo Ri, a small peak above Gokyo village, to relish the breathtaking views of the entire Khumbu region. As we ascend, the panoramic views become even more spectacular, offering sights of four of the seven highest peaks of Nepal: Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu. Upon reaching the fourth lake, Thonak Tsho, we take pleasure in the serene beauty of the lake before retracing our steps back to the third lake. If time and physical conditions permit, we may opt for an additional hike up to the fifth lake, Ngozumba Tsho, where the view of the Ngozumba Glacier—the longest glacier in the Himalayas—is truly captivating. The night is spent in Gokyo.
Maximum Altitude :5,357m/17,576ft ( Hiking: 3-4 hrs / Travel Distance : 2 km)
Accommodation : Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch , and Dinner
If we didn’t ascend Gokyo Ri on the previous day, we can undertake the climb today. The ascent to the top of Gokyo Ri is challenging, featuring a steep climb that takes approximately 3 to 4 hours to reach the summit. However, the scenery from Gokyo Ri is truly magnificent, with Gokyo village perched on the edge of the third lake, overlooked by Cholatse and the expansive Nogzumpa Glacier. The panoramic views include mountains like Kusum Kanguru, Thamserku, Kangtega, Taboche, Cholatse, Makalu, Lhotse, Nuptse, Everest, Changtse, and Pumori. Witnessing the sunrays kiss Everest as it towers over the surrounding peaks is a truly astounding sight. Our trek continues through the Ngazumpa Glacier to the mountain on the other side, followed by traversing along the edge of that mountain and descending into Thagnak. Today’s hike is relatively short, allowing for an afternoon of rest to prepare for upcoming longer hiking days and elevation gain.
Maximum Altitude : 4,750m/15,585ft (Hiking: 4-5 hrs /Travel Distance : 4 km )
Accommodation : Hotel
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 11 : Thagnak to Cho La pass to Dzongla
Today marks one of the most challenging days of the trip as we tackle the formidable Cho La pass. While the pass itself is not inherently difficult, its steep incline and a glacier traverse on the eastern side demand caution. The trail is steep and icy, and we must navigate carefully to avoid slipping on the glazed rocks. The trek from Phedi ascends through a ravine and a rocky trail. En route, we traverse the side of a frozen lake, ultimately reaching the top of the pass adorned with prayer flags. The pyramidal Ama Dablam commands attention over a range of mountains to the south, while Cholatse soars to the west and Lobuche East and Baruntse rise sharply to our right. Negotiating through some crevasses, we finally reach Dzongla Village. From here, we are treated to magnificent views of Cholatse, Ama Dablam, Lobuche mountains, and the distant Pheriche Village below.
Maximum Altitude : 5,420m/17,783ft. ( Hiking: 7-8 hrs / Travel Distance : 7 km )
Accommodation : Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 12 : Dzongla to Lobuche
Today’s trek is relatively short, allowing us ample time to relax and appreciate the surrounding beauty. Descending from Dzongla, we traverse a grassy trail, soaking in the view of Lobuche Peak. The trail meanders through a wide river bed before leading us to Lobuche. The remainder of the day can be spent resting, helping us prepare for the upcoming longer trek on the following day. The night will be spent in Lobuche.
Maximum Altitude : 4,940m/16,208ft( Hiking: 2-3 hrs / Travel Distance : 6 km)
Accommodation : Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 13 : Lobuche to Gorak Shep , visit Everest Base Camp
We embark on the trail to Everest Base Camp, navigating through the once vast Gorak Shep Lake. Continuing straight ahead, we encounter the Indian army mountaineers’ memorials. The path from this point can be deceptive, underscoring the importance of diligently following our lead Sherpa. The trek is demanding due to the thin air at high altitude, leading us through rocky dunes, moraine, and streams before arriving at Everest Base Camp. Here, vibrant tents of mountaineers stand out against the gray surroundings, especially in the spring. From the base camp, we can marvel at the views of Nuptse, Khumbuste, and Pumori. Afterward, we return to Gorak Shep for a restful night.
For those who prefer, the sunset view from Kala Patthar is more commendable than the sunrise view, so it’s recommended to visit Kala Patthar during sunset on this day. As the setting sun’s rays illuminate the snow-capped mountains, the resulting scenery is truly incredible. Trekkers who choose to ascend Kala Patthar during sunset on this day should inform their guide, who will coordinate accordingly.
Maximum Altitude : 5,364m/17,599ft ( Hiking: 6-7 hrs / Travel Distance : 13 km )
Accommodation : Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 14 : Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar to Pheriche
We prepare for an early morning departure amid pre-dawn darkness and cold temperatures ranging from -10 to -14 degrees Celsius. Additionally, chilly winds are quite common. As we set out, familiar peaks like Lingtren, Khumbutse, and Changtse emerge to the east, and Everest begins to reveal itself. However, it is upon reaching Kala Patthar that we are treated to 360-degree, up-close, and formidable views of Mt. Everest. Capturing photographs and savoring the magnificent mountain panorama, we then return to Lobuche for a well-deserved night’s rest.
Participants heading to Everest Base Camp today will have an early breakfast to start early, as the hike to Everest Base Camp takes longer than the one to Kala Patthar. After both groups return to Gorak Shep, they will have lunch together. In the afternoon, the descent to Pheriche commences for a restful night.
Maximum Altitude : 5,545m/18,193ft ( Hiking: 7-8 hrsTravel Distance : 16 km )
Accommodation : Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 15 : Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
Descending through the hillside adorned with rhododendron and juniper trees, we traverse a landscape rich with natural beauty. Crossing the prayer-flag festooned bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, our trail follows the Dudh Koshi gorge, descending rapidly through pine forests. Within the forested expanse, one may encounter colorful pheasants and mountain goats. The path eventually leads to Sansa, offering panoramic views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Nuptse mountains. Passing through winding trails and a forested stretch, we reach Namche Bazaar. The night is spent in Namche Bazaar.
Maximum Altitude : 3,438m/11,280ft ( Hiking: 6-7 hrs / Travel Distance : 20 km )
Accommodation : Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 16 : Namche Bazaar to Lukla
The trail descends steeply, requiring careful navigation as our fatigued legs contend with the rocky terrain. Crossing suspension bridges over the fast-flowing Dudh Koshi and its tributaries, the trail gradually levels out. Upon reaching Lukla, we can finally stretch our sore legs and reflect on the experiences of the last couple of days. The night is spent in Lukla.
Maximum Altitude :2,800m/9,187ft ( Hiking: 6-7 hrs / Travel Distance : 19 km)
Accommodation : Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch , and Dinner
We board an early morning flight to Kathmandu, concluding our long mountain journey. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, there is the option to rest or engage in souvenir shopping. For those interested in exploring other areas of Kathmandu, today provides the opportunity to do so. Our guides are available to assist with both souvenir shopping and sightseeing. In the evening, a farewell dinner is organized to celebrate the successful completion of our journey. The night is spent in Kathmandu.
Maximum Altitude :1,350m/4,429ft (Flight : 40 min )
Accommodation : Hotel
Meals : Breakfast and Dinner
Your adventure in Nepal concludes today! The day involves exchanging emails with your travel companions and organizing your photos. A representative from Ngimalaya Adventure Trekking will accompany you to the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. As you journey home, you’ll have ample time to reflect on your experiences and plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal. Safe travels!
Meals : Breakfast
- US $3590.00
- US $199 per day
FAQS
Comparatively Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass is harder than the EBC classical route. One must read and acquire important information, consult and prepare better with a strong mind set to take up the challenge. This trek is more technically advanced than some of the other treks in the Everest region – thus it is more adventurous. With little technical skills and a good physical fitness and acclimatization, you’ll have nothing to worry about on the trek. Sometimes trekkers simply tend to get overwhelmed by hearing from others about the difficulties and various challenges of this trek. Our expert travel consultants will guide you for better counseling and preparation to take up this challenge.
Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo lakes and Cho La Pass is best done in pre-monsoon season i.e. from March to May and post-monsoon season i.e. from late September to December. It is also possible to do this trek in February and early September but the trek is best preferred during the above months.
After a long day’s hike, a relaxing night of comfortable sleep is very much crucial for the next day’s walk. Keeping your comfort into account, we make sure to book the best lodge with two beds in each room and western toilet facilities wherever available. Normally, the beds are clean and comfortable with an electric blanket (upon availability) and attached bathroom for most nights. The room’s temperature is usually maintained at 10-12°C / 50-54°F.