Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes: Many trekkers yearn to visit the Gokyo valley as a side trip during their Everest Base Camp. Here’s a unique opportunity to discover the route to Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Valley, Gokyo Peak, the famous Cho La pass, and Kala Patthar. Enjoy the full exploration of the valleys of the Khumbu, Gokyo lakes, Sherpa country, monasteries and the warm welcome of its inhabitants. The Trek would also enable you to enjoy the sensations offered by the mighty and famous Himalayan peaks including as Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Nuptse, Pumori and Ama Dablam, among others.

The trip takes adventurous trekkers through fabulous Gokyo Valley, Ngojumba Glacier, the Cho La pass, and the celebrated view points of Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar along with Everest Base Camp. Be sure to be mesmerized by the turquoise waters of Gokyo lakes, glaciers suspended on the Himalayas. Experience the unforgettable moments by witnessing an extraordinary culture in an extraordinary landscape. Enjoy the 360 degree panoramic views of above 8000 m massifs and other mountain ranges.

Gokyo Ri Everest Base camp via Gokyo Lakes

Autumn (mid Sept to mid Dec) and Spring(March to May) are the best seasons for the Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes Trek. The weather is sunny and warm, with outstanding views but the nights are cold and can fall to freezing in higher elevations. Trekking in summer/monsoon(June, July) will be affected by rain but summer trek could be a boon for a keen botanist. The trekking routes are crowded during spring and autumn but during monsoon and winter the routes are not packed and you could enjoy rather best of nature.

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes DAY 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1300 m/4264 ft)
Upon your arrival in the Kathmandu airport after completing your custom formalities (Visa, etc) pick up your luggage and look for our representative with a display board at the arrival gate. You will be then transferred to Hotel Shanker or a similar category hotel. After check in, you can either take a rest, hang around in the city, visit, it all depends upon your interests. In the evening we will organize a “Welcome Dinner” at an excellent traditional Nepalese Restaurant where you will enjoy a Nepalese cultural program as well as a fine meal. Included meal: Dinner (D)

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes DAY 02: Kathmandu (1300 m/4264 ft): Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Today after breakfast we will start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. Some of these landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites; including the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupati Nath, the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambunath) and Buddhists shrine (Buddha Nath) which is one of the large Stupas in the world. In the afternoon, there will be a pre-trip discussion where we can meet our trek leader, other crew and other participants of this trek. Himalayan Glacier Trekking briefs us regarding our trek as well as provides us opportunity to ask any questions we may have regarding our upcoming adventure. Included meal: Breakfast (B).

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes DAY 03: Kathmandu – Lukla (2,800 m/9,184 ft) – Phakding (2,652 m/8,700 ft): 3-4 hrs
Early morning, after breakfast we get transferred to domestic airport to fly to Lukla. After an adventurous 40 minute flight above breathtaking green and white mountains, we reach Tenzing-Hillary Airport at Lukla. This is one of the most beautiful air routes in the world culminating in a dramatic landing on a hillside surrounded by high mountains peaks. At the airport, we meet our other crew members. We get time to stroll around while the guide divides and manages baggage to be carried by porters. We start our trek through the prosperous village of Lukla until we reach Phakding. To assist in acclimatization, we only have a short hike today. However, if interested in additional activities we can take a side trip to a nearby monastery. Overnight in Phakding. Included meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B,L,D).

Crossing a prayer flag laden bridge

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes DAY 05: Namche Bazaar: Acclimatization Day

This is first scheduled ‘acclimatization’ day for this trek. Health experts always recommend us to stay active and moving during the rest day too instead of being idle. We either spend the day taking a day’s hike to Thame or visiting Khunde or carry out relaxed exploration of Namche Bazaar itself. If we trek a few hundred vertical feet during the day, it will help us to properly acclimatize. Our guides will take us to the Tourist Visitor Center near the headquarter of the Sagarmatha National Park where we can observe an assortment of things related to the first Everest ascenders, Sherpa culture and learn about the various plant and animal life of the Everest region. Namche Bazzar is the main centre of the Everest (Khumbu) region and has government offices, ATMs, Internet cafes, shops, restaurants, a bakery and a colorful market each Friday evening and Saturday. Overnight in Namche Bazaar. (B,L,D)

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes DAY 06: Namche Bazaar to Khumjung (3810 m/12500 ft): 3-4 hrs

Today’s journey starts with a climb up to the famous airstrip at Syangboche. Just above the airstrip is the Everest View Hotel, a Japanese scheme to build a deluxe hotel with great views of the highest mountains on Earth. Trekking up for about 2 hours and then leveling off until we reach the village of Khumjung. The Khumjung valley surrounded by the snowy peaks of Kondge and Thamserku and the sacred peak Khumbila, hosts a well known monastery that houses a yeti scalp. We also visit Hillary School which is at the same site. Another set of busy and colorful monasteries, lined with prayer flags and prayer wheels, are braced along the slopes high above this traditional village. Overnight in Khumjung. (B,L,D)

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes DAY 07: Khumjung to Dole (4,110 m/ 13,152 ft): 5-6 hrs
Most strenuous ascent of the day is obviously to pass the Mong La, a very charming place perched on the spur of Mt. Khumbila. An ancient historical Chorten stands at the centre of the settlement of Mong La. We stop at the top of Mong La to admire the grandstand views of surrounding snow-capped mountains and valleys while we have our lunch. The most outstanding feature of the trail today is the abundance of plant and animal vegetation including wildflowers and Rhododendrons. Spotting wild lives like pheasants, mountain goats, and the elusive musk deer while on the way is not unusual. Through forests, some waterfalls and bridges, we reach Dole; a small place with few teahouses. Overnight in Dole. (B,L,D)

Looking back from Cho La La Pass

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes DAY 08: Dole – Machherma(4,470 m/ 14,663 ft): 4-5 hrs
Firstly, we climb steadily up through a scenic ridge above the Dole and the trail climbs via Lhabarma at 4220m to Luza at 4360m. The path is steep in most places as we pass through thorny bushes up to Lhabarma. Offering us good views of Cho Oyu, Kantega, and Thamserku the trail takes us through many summer settlements and a charming hamlet of Luza (4360 m). While we ascend from Luza, the Dudh Koshi valley is deep like a canyon with its sheer sides. Walking along the hill side above thundering Dudkoshi passing through some small hamlets and through sandy spurs, we reach Machherma. Machherma is the last major settlement on the way up to Gokyo. The beautiful stream flowing down from the Kyajo Ri and Phari Lapche mountains runs through the middle of village before draining into the Dudh Koshi. Overnight in Machherma. (B,L,D)

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes DAY 09: Machharma – Gokyo (4800 m/15,744 ft):4-5 hrs
Today, we climb through a ridge Chorten from where we can see fabulous view of both down the valley and of the Mt. Kangtega, Thamserku, and northern part to the Cho-Oyu (8153m). Beyond the ridge the valley widens as the trail passes through a Chorten and reaches Pangka (4480 m) after some gentle walk. We descend to the river bank before beginning to climb up to the terminal moraine of the Ngozamba Glacier. It is a steep climb on the moraine. After crossing an iron bridge over an stream the trial levels out as it follows the valley past the first lake, known as Longpongo at 4690m, where we get chance to observe the Lama footprints on a stone. At the sight of the second lake, Taboche Tsho we become mesmerized by the shimmering turquoise blue sheet of water sparkling in the sun. Little ahead of the second lake, we reach the third lake, the two linked by a surging stream. Gokyo village stands by the third lake and Cho-Oyu Mountain as a backdrop sets an amazing spectacular sight here. After lunch, we explore around the third Lakes, Dudh Pokhari. Overnight in Gokyo. (B,L,D)

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes DAY 10: Gokyo Valley:Acclimatization Day (Hike to Gokyo Ri-5357m/17,570)
Today is full day rest or an acclimatization day but we know we should not stay idle. If the weather is good, we take the opportunity to climb Gokyo Ri today instead of next day to enjoy the scene from the best viewpoint of Everest Region. Gokyo is not only popular for its grand view from Gokyo Peak but also for the six lakes which it hosts. Definitely we would not miss the chance to observe the fourth lake (Thonak Tsho) and fifth lake (Ngozuma Tsho). If interested, climb on a hill at the edge of the Lakes to get astounding views of Cho-Oyu, Gyachung Kang, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makulu. Beyond the fifth Lakes is the Cho Oyu Base Camp. Scenery here is breathtaking with Cho Oyu and Gyachung Kang seeming just a stone’s throw away. Northern part of the fifth lake provides fabulous views of Cho-Oyu Base Camp and biggest glacier of the world- the Ngazumpa glacier. Moved by the charm, we may even try to go sixth lake too but depends upon our own interest and time. Back to Gokyo village and overnight at Gokyo. (B,L,D)

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes DAY 11: Gokyo Ri – Thaknak (4750 m/15,580 ft): 4-5 hrs
If Gokyo Ri has not been done the day before we do this today. Gokyo Ri is the highlight of this trip. Early morning, we hike up to the Gokyo Ri (Gokyo Peak). Climb to Gokyo Ri is obviously strenuous as it is steep up and takes about 3 to 4 hours to reach the top, but even from the trial scenery of Gokyo village on the edge of third lake overlooked by Cholatse and the broad Nogzumpa Glacier are mind blowing. We feel like we are surrounded by panoramic mountains like Kusum Kanguru, Thamserku, K 43, Kangtega, Taboche, Cholatse, Makalu, Lhotse, Nuptse, Everest, Changtse, and Pumori. Sight of sunrays kissing the Everest that towers over all surrounding peaks is unlike from Kala Patthar (from Kala Patthar Nuptse seems taller). Our Gokyo Ri visit will be unforgettable life time memories. We trek down to Gokyo and after breakfast we trek to Thaknak for overnight being by the second Lakes and the Ngozumba Glacier. Overnight in Thaknak. (B,L,D)

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes DAY 12: Thaknak – Cho-la Pass (5367 m/17,604 ft) – Dzongla (4830 m /15939 ft): 7-8 hrs
Cho La Pass is also another show up of this trip. Today is the toughest day and we need to start early (4-6 am) compared to other days on the trip. The pass is not itself difficult but it is steep and involves a glacier traverse on the eastern side. We need to be careful as the trail is vertical and the rocks glazed by ice add trouble to the trekkers making the trail slippery. Our trail climbs through a ravine and a rocky trail we climb up continuously up from Phedi. Trek through the side of a frozen lake while we come to the top of the pass decorated with prayer flags. The pyramidal Ama Dablam presides over a range of mountains on the south even as Cholatse soar on the west and Lobuche East and Baruntse rises sharply to our right. We need to pass through some crevasses before we reach Dzongla, another beautiful place with a complete view of Mt. Cholatse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Lobuche peak and the Pheriche village far below. Overnight at a very basic local lodge.

Gokyo Lakes, Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes DAY 13: Dzongla to Lobuche (4940 m/16,207 ft): 2-3 hrs
Today’s walk will be a bit shorter. Thus we would get more time to observe and relax. We climb down from Dzongla and after crossing a bridge and transverse through grassy trail. Enjoying the view of Lobuche Peak we stretch up eventually through a ridge. Ama Dablam, Kangtega, Thamserku Taboche are seen looming prominently. Curving round through the wide gravelly river bed, we reach Lobuche. Overnight in Lobuche. (B,L,D)

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes DAY 14: Lobuche – Gorak Shep [5170 m/16,961ft]
Everest Base Camp [5364 m/17,594 ft] / Kala Patthar (5545 m/18,192 ft) – Gorak Shep: 8-9 hrs
The trail to Gorak Shep goes ahead through the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. We pass though the pyramid sign post. A small ascent would take us to Thangma Riju from where we perceive 360 degree vista of snowy mountains. Climbing steeply up to the top through the torrent of Changri glacier, we catch our first glimpse of Kala Patthar, a grey-green knoll beneath the Mt. Pumori. As we reach Gorak Shep, we will be surrounded by snow-capped mountains looming all around us including the top of the world – Mount Everest. After a brief lunch and rest, we take the trail to Everest Base Camp through the once vast Gorak Shep Lake. Continuing straight ahead, we come through the Indian army mountaineers’ memorials. As we reach Everest Base Camp we cannot stop ourselves from appreciating the Everest climbers those take the hazardous route through the Khumbu icefall.

The sunset view from Kala Patthar is more admirable than the sunrise view, so it is suggested to visit Kala Patthar today during sunset. As the setting sun’s rays strike the snow capped mountains the resulting scenery is indescribable. For those trekkers who wish to continue to Kala Patthar, our guides and Sherpas coordinate your hike to Kala Patthar for amazing sunset view today rather than waiting until the next day. Overnight in Gorak Shep at a local lodge. (B,L,D)

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes DAY 15: Gorak Shep – Kala Patthar / Everest Base Camp – Lobuche: 7-8 hrs
We start early in the morning to catch the dramatic views from Kala Patthar witnessing the first light of day shining on Mount Everest. However, we need to get prepared for an early morning, dark and cold temperature (-10 to -14 C) departure beforehand. Plus there is always the potential for chilly winds which are quite common. Familiar peaks such as Lingtren, Khumbutse, Changtse tower to the east even as Everest begins to reveal itself emerging between the west shoulder crest and Nuptse. After several hours of an ascent, we reach Kala Patthar. From here we scramble to climb the rocky outcrop near to the summit marked by cairns and prayer flags. As we reach the top, we sit on the Kala Patthar rocks our eyes taking in the unbelievable Himalayan Panorama, wandering from one mighty massif to another.
Those participants who plan to visit Everest base camp today will have early breakfast to start early as Everest base camp hike takes longer time (4-5 hrs) than the Kala Patthar hike. Upon return back to Gorak Shep, the group will have lunch together; and afternoon time is taken to descend down to Lobuche for a good night’s rest. Overnight in Lobuche (B,L,D)

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes DAY 16: Lobuche-Pheriche-Pangboche-Tengboche (3870m/12900 ft.): 5-6 hrs
Today is much easier walk down to the lower altitudes. Following the same route back to the terminal moraines at Dughla and the wide valley of Khumbu Khola, we pass through the beautiful Sherpa villages of Pheriche, Orsho, and Shomare. We might take a different trail to visit the Gompa in Upper Pangboche or take the regular trial to reach Pangboche. From Pangboche we retrace our footsteps down to the Imja Khola and up through the forest to Debuche or if interested, we might visit nuns at the Debuche monastery. If we are trekking during the full moon of November or December, we might get an opportunity to witness the Mani Rimdu festival in the monastery at Tengboche. Overnight in Tengboche (B,L,D)

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes DAY 17: Tengboche – Namche Bazzar – Monjo (2835m/9300ft): 5-6 hrs
We continuing through the hillside blanketed by rhododendron and juniper trees. If it’s spring, the surrounding adored by pink and red rhododendron flowers is dazzling. After crossing the prayer flag festooned bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, trail then follows the Dudh Koshi gorge descending rapidly through the pine forests. The path eventually reaches Sansa. We keep a lookout for wild life such as mountain goats, snow leopards, colorful pheasants, etc., while we pass through the forest by the trail. After passing a Chorten, we reach the army camp at of Namche Bazaar. We continue descending down until we arrive at Monjo. On reaching our lodge, we take a nice hot shower and have very relaxed sleep in our room in Monjo. Overnight in Monjo. (B,L,D)

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes DAY 18: Monjo to Lukla: 4-5 hrs
The final day of the trek. The trail descends steeply downward so we need to walk slowly and under control as our shaky legs continuously battle the rocky terrain. After crossing the suspension bridges over the fast flowing Dudh Koshi and its tributaries the trail becomes more level and natural. By today we start to get warmed up by the light breeze. Any remaining sore throats and colds will be gone by today as we pass through this charming mountain air. Although we are travelling the same route down, we feel completely different views. We snap a mixture of open plains, rhododendron and pine forests, and in the distance snow covered peaks. We walk through the Sherpa villages’ noticing impressive faith in Buddhism and culture of prayer stones and prayers flag while we walk through the villages. On arrival in Lukla, we stretch those sore legs and recall the experiences of the last couple of weeks. We experience the culmination of a fantastic trek on a happy note with everyone back safe and sound with smile on their faces! Overnight in Lukla. (B,L,D)

Gokyo Lakes, Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes DAY 19: Fly back to Kathmandu
Flights to Kathmandu are usually scheduled for morning because wind can create problem to fly the aircraft in the afternoon but sometime the flight time can be delayed due to bad weather and other reason that are beyond our command. We fly back to Kathmandu after our long mountain journey. The early morning flight drops us at Kathmandu. You can rest and relax throughout the day in your hotel. If get interested to take some gifts home from Nepal for friends and relatives, visit to some nearby shops or venture out in Thamel for typical Nepalese goods which can be assisted by our guides or you can do it yourself too. If you want to explore any other areas of Kathmandu take the time to do that today! Remember, we will be hosting a fantastic celebration dinner together for successfully completing your trek to Everest Base Camp Trek! Overnight in Kathmandu. (B,D)

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes DAY 20: Final Departure
Your adventure in Nepal comes to an end today! There is nothing to do but trade emails with travel companions and organize the photos. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing. A representative will take you to the airport approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight. On your way home you’ll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal. (B)

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes Pricing due to currency fluctuations and seasonal changes please inquire for the best possible price.

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes: What’s Included:
All airport/hotel transfers
3 nights in 4-star hotel in Kathmandu (Hotel Shanker or similar standard) with breakfast
13 nights in standard guest house/lodges in mountain
Welcome and farewell dinner
All accommodation and meals during the trek
A full day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu valley including tour guide and entrance fees
Domestic flights and airport departure taxes
An experienced English-speaking trek leader (trekking guide), assistant trek leader (4 trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and Sherpa porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers:1 porter) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food and lodging
Down jacket, four seasonal sleeping bag, Himalayan Glacier Trekking duffel bag, t-shirt, and trekking map (down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after trip completion)
A comprehensive medical kit
All necessary paper work and permits (National park permit, TIMS )

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes: What’s NOT Include:
Bring 2 passport size photographs
International airfare to and from Kathmandu
Excess baggage charges
Extra night accommodation/s in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from the mountain(due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu(and also in the case you return early from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
Travel and rescue insurance
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower etc)
Tips for guides and porters

Himalayan prayer flags

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes: The Trekking Group
For the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes, there will be one leader, assistant leader (4 trekkers:1 assistant guide) and Sherpa porters for luggage carrying (2 trekkers:1 porter) This arrangement ensures that should any body in the group is sick, the trip can still go ahead as planned. We can run the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes for group of any size, but generally include a maximum of twelve people in a group as we have found this to be the optimum size for a successful trip. However, if you would like to make a group booking for more than twelve people together, we can arrange this too.

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes: A Typical Day On The Trail…

Soon after first light your Sherpa will knock on your door and will offer you a nice cup of warm tea. After freshening up, you will pack your bags and assemble in the dining hall for a hearty breakfast before setting off on the day`s trek. After approximately 2-3 hours of trekking you will take a lunch break. After a relaxing lunch, you will typically spend 2-3 more hours on the trail before reaching your stopping point. Throughout the day you will rest and take some time to admire the views. There will be plenty of picture taking opportunities – incredibly panoramic mountains, rivers, landscapes, prayer flags, temples, shrines, cairns, monasteries, etc. Once you arrive at teahouse, you will take a brief rest, shower, and have a light snack with tea or coffee. If you are so inclined, you may take a short walk through the village and surrounding neighbourhood. After checking into your room you`ll have time to read or chat with fellow trekkers and your Himalayan Glacier crew. Following a warm dinner in a cozy dining hall your trek leader will brief you on the next day`s itinerary. You will place your order for breakfast which will allow your guide to have everything ready for you in the morning. Extra time can be spent reading, enjoying some drinks or playing cards. Your Himalayan Glacier crew loves to teach various Nepali card games as well as learning new Western games. Finally, it`s off to bed for a well earned night`s rest before starting all over again the next day.