Trip Info
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Flight and private vehicle
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Min. 2 Pax
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5,545m (Kala Patthar)
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Hotels and teahouses
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Moderate to high
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Kathmandu
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Kathmandu
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Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November)
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Professional guide
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Trekking
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English (other languages available on request)
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Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
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Sagarmatha National Park permit, TIMS card
Overview
Experience the ultimate adventure in the Everest region with this thrilling trek that combines the classic Everest Base Camp journey with the scenic beauty of Gokyo Lakes. Starting from Lukla, trek through lush forests and traditional Sherpa villages to reach Everest Base Camp, where you’ll be awed by the majestic Himalayas. Then, cross the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420 meters), offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Finally, explore the stunning turquoise Gokyo Lakes and climb Gokyo Ri for breathtaking views of Mount Everest and the Khumbu region. This trek is perfect for those seeking an adventurous and rewarding Himalayan experience.
Trip Highlights
- Lukla Flight: Scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, gateway to the Everest region.
- Sherpa Villages: Experience the culture and hospitality of traditional Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar and Dingboche.
- Everest Base Camp: Reach the iconic Everest Base Camp and marvel at the world's highest peak.
- Kala Patthar: Trek to Kala Patthar for stunning panoramic views of Everest and the surrounding peaks.
- Cho La Pass: Cross the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420 meters) with awe-inspiring views of the Himalayas.
- Gokyo Lakes: Discover the stunning turquoise Gokyo Lakes, set against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
- Gokyo Ri: Climb Gokyo Ri for breathtaking vistas of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, along with panoramic views of the Khumbu region.
- Stunning Landscapes: Enjoy diverse landscapes ranging from lush valleys and alpine forests to high-altitude deserts and glaciers.
Itinerary
Day 1 :
Kathmandu arrival (1,300m)
Lantang Ri Trekking & Expedition representative will greet you in an airport & transfer you to your Hotel, after refreshment you will be picked from hotel lobby to office where you will be formally introduced to your Guide and the activities to be enjoyed over the next few days. We will also ask for your passport photographs and any other details required for your trek permits, at this stage.
Day 2 :
Kathmandu sightseeing and drive to Ramechhap (1,300m)
After breakfast, we start an interesting tour around Kathmandu. Escorting by an English speaking guide (can be provide any language speaking guide on request) be, try to give them a full taste of our vivid culture image and an enchanting manner of its people. In our sightseeing tour we go to Monkey temple Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Bouddhanath and Kathmandu Durbar square.
Bouddhanath: Bouddhanath is a Buddhist religious complex with a history dating back over 500 years. Located on the eastern edge of Kathmandu it is now a site of great pilgrimage for Buddhist followers who circle its massive stupa, spin its many prayer wheels and visit its beautiful monastery. The main feature of Boudhanath is its huge hemispherical white stupa with central golden tower and the all-seeing eyes of the Buddha. Visitors should circle the stupa in a clockwise direction and spin prayer wheels for good fortune and a good life. Visitors may also enjoy visiting the Thangka painting school within the complex to see highly skilled artists at work on religious mandala paintings.
Pashupatinath: Hindu Temple is a very large and complex and focal point for the Hindu religion. This old and very revered complex of buildings and shrines is dedicated to the Lord Shiva, one of the main deities of Hinduism. While Lord Shiva has multiple forms he is often seen as the destroyer. This has great significance for the Pashupatinath temple as it is the site of many Hindi ritual cremations each day. Pashupatinath is considered by Hindus to be an auspicious site for passing from one stage of life to the next through the purifying and destroying flames of cremation. However, on a happier note, visitors may also get to see the temple in a buoyant festival mode with one of the many Hindu festivals celebrated here through the year.
Swayambhunath: You will first visit the Swayambhunath temple complex that sits atop a high hill overlooking Kathmandu and the entire Kathmandu Valley. Swayambhunath is perhaps the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site in Nepal. It consists of a very large white stupa with the all-seeing-eye of Lord Buddha plus many small stupa and beautifully carved stone shrines. This is a wonderful place to catch your breath and start to understand and appreciate the deep importance of Buddhist belief to the people of Nepal and the Himalaya region. Make sure you ring the many bells to awaken the gods and let them know you are in Nepal. Take the time to enjoy the view over Kathmandu and have your guide point the many other highlights of the city. In the far distance to the east you may also be able to see the hills of Nagarkot where your hotel for tonight is located. If you feel energetic you might also like to try some or all of the 350 steps that lead all the way from Kathmandu city up to your Swayambhunath temple vantage point.
Kathmandu Durbar Square: The next stop today is the beautiful Kathmandu Durbar Square, or the royal palace square of the ancient Malla kings of the Kathmandu Valley. This square and all its architectural treasures are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While some damage to buildings occurred in the 2015 earthquake the site still contains many stunning architectural gems. The original royal palace courtyards are open to visitors and you will marvel at the intricate timber carving and beautifully crafted brickwork of the palace. The open square outside the palace has many beautiful multi-storey pagodas and temples with ornate carving and carpentry artwork that tells some of the story of the ancient kings and their mystical time and beliefs. The square also contains many important Hindu temples and statues such as to Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Durbar Square also contains the unique and intriguing Kumari Chok. This is an ancient and ornate house where resides the Raj Kumari – the Living Goddess. She is a young girl chosen through an ancient and mystical selection process to become the human incarnation of the Hindu mother goddess, Durga. If you are in the courtyard of the home at the right time in the afternoon you may see a brief glimpse of the Goddess at her window.
Finally, drive you to Ramechhap for the overnight to catch the early morning flight to Lukla which takes off from Ramechhap airport for a short duration.
Day 3 :
Ramechhap to Lukla Trek to Phakding (2,610m)
Your early flight to Lukla today will take approximately 30 minutes; from here you will trek to Phakding, descending 200m over 3 hours. You will catch a glimpse of some great mountains such as Nupla (5885m) above Kongde Ridge, Kusum Kang (6367m appears on the right a little later. All along you will be following the northern (left) bank of the Dudh Kosi River. It is important to take these first few days slowly to enable your body to acclimatise and to enjoy the passing scenery and culture.
Day 4 :
Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Today begins on level ground, relative to the environment in which you are! You will cross the river on a high suspension bridge and begin to climb up to Monjo (2800m) and on to the gateway to the Sagamartha National Park Entrance in place to protect and preserve this beautiful environment. There is a good rest stop on the way up where you will see people gathered, admiring the first real chance to see Everest in the distance. On the way up today you will be rewarded with views of Kusum Kangaru, Thamserku, Konde-Ri and Tawache Peak before eventually arriving at Namche after about 5 hours.
Day 5 :
Acclimatization day in and around Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
The main aim today is to allow your body to acclimatise, it is important to drink lots of water and take some gentle exercise. Namche is a growing town tucked into a neat little valley, there is lots going on in the centre with market days on Friday and Saturday. There are some interesting museums and shops. There is also internet and a sauna! You could venture further afield, take a visit to Khumjung where the Hillary school sits and Khunde nearby, on the way back to Namche you could visit the Shyangboche airstrip, (3790m) the highest in the world nearby is the Everest View Hotel for stunning views.
Day 6 :
Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860m)
There are various trails leading out of the village of Namche, your guide will show you the most appropriate, you are most likely to enjoy excellent views of Ama Dablam and Everest amongst others along the way though. From Sanasa trail descends to Phunki Thanga from where you have a 2 hour climb to Tengboche steeply at first but soon levels out. You will come to a stone gate which marks the entrance to Tengboche, the religious centre of the Khumbu region. Overall today will take approximately 5 hours.
Day 7 :
Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410m)
Another 5 hour day today as you first descend through rhododendron forests to pastures below and Deboche. You begin to climb from the Imja Khola river with great views of Ama Dablam and Kantaga (6779m), your route is lined by chortens to Pengboche the highest year round settlement in the valley and the gompa here is the oldest in the Khumbu, home to what is believed to be the hand skull of a yeti. You soon find yourself above the tree line you will pass a few tea shops and yak herders before you reach Dingboche a beautiful patchwork of fields enclosed by stone walls.
Day 8 :
Acclimatisation at Dingboche (4,410m)
Here you will enjoy outstanding mountain views, particularly the north face of Ama Dablam and Lhotse-Nuptse ridge. There are several walk options enabling your body to acclimatise better. Remember to drink plenty of water.
Day 9 :
Dingboche to Lobuche (4,990m)
A little more than five hours today and you will travel through Periche, Dugla and enjoy fantastic views. Lobuche is well protected from the elements.
Day 10 :
Lobuche to Kala Patthar (5,545m) via Gorakshep and trek back to Gorakshep (5,140m)
Trek from Lobuche to Kala Patthar via Gorakshep and trek back to Gorakshep and it takes about five hours. After an early breakfast, you will prepare for Kala Patthar (5545m) Trek up the valley following the rocky moraine path, view icy glacial pond and icebergs down below of Khumbu glacier. After the last rocky moraine dunes, a short downhill walk brings you to Gorakshep, the flat field below Kala Patthar (5545m) and Mt. Pumori (7145m) Gorakshep is the location of the original Everest Base Camp with the new camp being further up the valley. The walk is gradual until you reach a rocky spot; from there another uphill climb for half an hour brings you to Kala Patthar. From Kala Patthar top, the views will be beyond your wildest imagination, with Everest seeming within a stones throw distance between the summit of Mt. Nuptse and Lho-La and Lhotse on the back. The panoramic view from this spot is something to cherish and you feel it’s worth the hard climb up to here and to feel at the top of the world. With all the higher snow capped giants that dominate all around, it is truly a magnificent spot to be at on a clearer sunny day. After a great moment, an hour descent takes you back to Gorakshep.
Day 11 :
Gorakshep to Everest Base Camp (5,360m) and trek to Djongla (4,830m)
Trek from Gorakshep to Everest Base Camp and back to Gorakshep which takes about five hours. While trekking to Everest Base Camp you pass through a trail, which weaves its way through ice pinnacles and past the crevasses of the Khumbu Glacier. During the spring season, you can meet some expedition team on the Everest Base Camp. The number of team is less in the autumn season. On the return leg, you can take a higher route to get a spectacular view of the Khumbu icefall and numerous mountains. You return to Gorak Shep and trek to Dzongla where you will stay at a trekking lodge for th night.
Day 12 :
Dzongla to Thangna (4700m) Via Cho La Pass (5,420m)
Trek from Dzongla to Thangna (4650 m.) and it takes about five and half hours. The early part of the trek goes through flat stone path for an hour passing through arid valley. Now you head towards steeply ascent path as you reach Chola glacier. You walk for half an hour along the icy trails. After you reach Chola pass the routh moves down through the stony path until you reach Phedi. Those who go for camping trek they camp around here and enjoy their lunch. The path goes ups and down for some distance and you arrive at ridge. From here you climb down upto Thangna. It is a small village with few lodges and tea shops. You can catch a glimpse of Machhermo peak and some others. People here mostly grow potato, buck wheat, wheat and some green vegetables
Day 13 :
Thangna to Gokyo afternoon excursion (4,790m)
Trek from Thangna to Gokyo (4750m.) which takes about four hours. To reach Gokyo your trails move along the glacier route until you reach first lake. The trek is easier over flat path following Dudh Koshi stream upto Gokyo. It is a windy valley and situated near the third lake. At Gokyo you are stunned by the natural beauty of Dudh Pokhari lake.
Then we carry out an excursion in and around Gokyo valley. Gokyo is a trade centre where the Sherpa people run lodges to provide the best services to the trekkers. Gokyo is situated by the side of Ngozumba glacier, the biggest glacier of Nepal. This day you can make a side trip to Fifth Lake via Fourth Lake.
Day 14 :
Gokyo to Gokyo Ri (5,360m) & Trek to Machhermo (4,470m)
Trek/climb from Gokyo to Gokyo Ri (5483m) & Trek to Machhermo (4410m) and it takes about five hours. Gokyo Ri looms above the village on the northern edge of the lake and you leave camp just after first light, following a steep path up the hillside. As you climb, the summits of Everest, Lhotse and Makalu slowly come into sight and the view from the summit of Gokyo Ri itself, is one of the finest to be had in the Everest region – some say it is even better than that from Kala Patthar. After lunch it is a short walk to the village of Machermo following Dudh Koshi stream. There are yak pastures and few human settlements. From here you can have an excellent view of Tawoche.
Day 15 :
Machermo to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
You will be trekking for around 5 hours today descending to Dole and to Phortse Tenga (3650m) passing through the pretty rhododendron forests.
Day 16 :
Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,840m)
A four hour walk today descending steeply for the first half then on to Phakding, where you will spend the night.This is your final day trekking; it will take you around 3 hours more to Lukla from Phakding. This evening you will have a farewell ceremony with your guides and porters where you will be able to sample some Chang and try some Sherpa dancing.
Day 17 :
Fly from Lukla to Ramechhap and drive to Kathmandu (1,300m)
You will be on an early flight back this morning then drive to Kathmandu and taken to your hotel.
Day 18 :
Kathmandu free day of your own (1,300m)
Enjoy a day exploring some of the quieter streets of Kathmandu, stocking up on souvenirs and presents for those back home. This evening you have a farewell dinner, you will be picked up in good time.
Day 19 :
Final Departure (1,300m)
You will be met at your hotel and taken to the airport in good time to meet your flight home.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Airport pick-up & drop-off transportation by private vehicle
- Twin /Double sharing deluxe accommodation in 2-3 star hotel with breakfast
- Sightseeing in Kathmandu. Escorted with English speaking guide. Private transportation. Entrance fees
- Kathmandu/ Ramechhap/Kathmandu private transfer
- Ramechhap to Lukla and Ramechhap flight for clients and guide
- Meals - Breakfast with 2 cups of tea/coffee, lunch, dinner - during trek
- Everest trekking map for group
- All necessary paper work & permits
- National Park entrance fee
- A First Aid and Eco trained & government licensed English speaking guide
- One porter between each two members during trek
- Accommodation, meals, salary, equipment, transportation & Insurance of trekking staff
- First Aid kids
- Travel & rescue arrangement
- All government taxes
- Farewell dinner
Cost Excludes
- International Airfare
- Nepal Entry Visa fee (US$ 50 per person for 30 days)
- Excess baggage charges
- Lunch/Dinner in Kathmandu
- Drinking Water, tea coffee ,electricity bills & hot shower during trek
- Medical evacuation in case of emergency
- Personal gear & clothing - these may be available for hire
- Tips, any expenses of personal nature, client's insurance
- Soft/hard drinks
- Expenses incurred due to mishaps, landslide, strikes, political unrest etc. In such case extra will be charged as per actual
- Anything not specified in the Cost Include section
Map
Essential information
The Everest Base Camp, Gokyo, and Cho La Trek is a comprehensive 16-day journey that combines the iconic Everest Base Camp trek with the scenic Gokyo Lakes and the challenging Cho La Pass. This trek provides an immersive experience in the Everest region, offering stunning Himalayan vistas, high-altitude lakes, and the thrill of crossing one of the region’s notable mountain passes.
General Overview
- Region: Everest region, including Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and Cho La Pass.
- Duration: 16 days, with acclimatization days incorporated.
- Maximum Elevation: Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters (17,598 feet); Cho La Pass at 5,420 meters (17,782 feet); Gokyo Ri at 5,357 meters (17,575 feet).
- Difficulty: Challenging; requires good physical fitness, stamina for high-altitude trekking, and experience in handling rugged terrain.
- Best Time to Trek: Pre-monsoon (March-May) and post-monsoon (September-November) for optimal weather conditions and clear views.
Permits and Regulations
- Sagarmatha National Park Permit: Required for entry into the Everest region; supports park conservation efforts.
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card: Necessary for tracking and safety purposes.
- Permit Acquisition: Permits can be obtained through registered trekking agencies or in Kathmandu. Ensure you acquire them before starting the trek to avoid delays.
Accommodation
- Teahouses and Lodges: Accommodation in teahouses along the route. Facilities are basic but comfortable, with shared bathrooms and limited amenities at higher altitudes.
- Camping: Not required; teahouses are available along the entire route.
- Hotels: Comfortable hotels in Kathmandu and Lukla with modern amenities such as hot showers, private rooms, and Wi-Fi.
Meals
- On the Trek: Meals include local Nepali dishes like dal bhat (lentils and rice), noodles, soups, and momo (dumplings). Options may be more limited at higher altitudes.
- Breakfast: Common choices include porridge, eggs, bread, and tea.
- Lunch: Typically consists of dal bhat, noodles, or pasta.
- Dinner: Expect dishes like dal bhat, fried rice, or noodle-based meals.
- Food Quality: Generally good in lower regions; may become more basic and limited at higher elevations. Fresh vegetables and fruits are scarce at higher altitudes.
Transportation
- To and From the Trek: Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (about 35 minutes). The trek starts from Lukla and ends in Lukla, where you will fly back to Kathmandu.
Fitness and Health Considerations
- Fitness Level: Trekkers should be in excellent physical condition to handle long days, steep ascents, and high-altitude conditions.
- Acclimatization: The itinerary includes acclimatization days to adjust to high altitudes. Symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches and dizziness, require immediate descent if severe.
- Health Precautions: Carry a personal first-aid kit with altitude sickness medication, pain relievers, and gastrointestinal remedies. Consult a healthcare provider for vaccinations and health advice before the trek.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive insurance is required, covering high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation.
Environmental and Cultural Responsibility
- Leave No Trace: Follow principles to minimize environmental impact. Carry out all waste, avoid harming flora and fauna, and use eco-friendly products.
- Respect Local Culture: Engage respectfully with local communities, dress modestly, and ask permission before taking photographs of people or sacred sites.
- Support Local Economy: Employ local guides and porters, stay in locally owned lodges, and buy local goods to support the local economy and sustain trekking communities.
Guiding and Support
- Guides and Porters: Hiring a licensed guide is recommended for navigation, support, and cultural insights. Porters can carry your luggage, making the trek more manageable.
- Group Size: Groups typically range from 2 to 16 trekkers. Smaller groups provide a more personalized experience, while larger groups benefit from shared resources.
- Guiding Method: The trek is fully guided, with a professional guide assisting with navigation and providing cultural and logistical support.
Communication and Connectivity
- Mobile Connectivity: Mobile network coverage is available in many parts of the Everest region, though it can be inconsistent at higher altitudes. Some teahouses offer Wi-Fi, though it may be slow and unreliable.
- Emergency Communication: Satellite phones may be used in remote areas for emergencies. Ensure you can contact your guide or trekking company if needed.
Privacy Policy
- Data Collection: Personal information such as passport details, emergency contacts, and medical history is collected for booking and safety purposes.
- Data Usage: Information is used solely for organizing the trek, including permits and handling emergencies, and is not shared with third parties except for necessary arrangements.
- Confidentiality: Personal data is stored securely and accessible only to authorized personnel. We are committed to safeguarding your privacy.
- Consent: By booking this trek, you consent to the collection and use of your data in line with the privacy policy.
FAQs
- How difficult is the Everest Base Camp, Gokyo, and Cho La Trek? This trek is challenging, requiring good physical fitness and stamina for high-altitude trekking and rugged terrain.
- What kind of food will I have on the trek? Meals include local dishes such as dal bhat, noodles, and momo, with simpler options available at higher altitudes.
- What if I experience altitude sickness? The itinerary includes acclimatization days, but severe symptoms require immediate descent.
- Is travel insurance necessary? Yes, comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation is essential.
- Can I use my phone during the trek? Mobile connectivity is available in many areas but may be limited at higher elevations. Some teahouses offer Wi-Fi, though it can be slow.
This essential guide provides all the necessary details for the Everest Base Camp, Gokyo, and Cho La Trek, ensuring a well-prepared, safe, and unforgettable adventure.
