Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake

159 Reviews in Tripadvisor
Recommended by 99% of Travelers
Duration
14 Days
Trip Grade
Strenuous
Maximum Altitude
5545m
Group Size
Min 2 Person
Activities
Trekking
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Best Time
Mar, Apr, May, Sept, Oct, Nov

Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake offers a thrilling journey, blending turquoise glacial lakes, stunning mountain vistas, Sherpa culture, and the daring Chola La Pass is an unforgettable venture.

Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake Description

Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake is the trekking trip combining of Gokyo Valley and legendary Everest Base Camp that gets over the adventurous Cho La Pass (5417 meters) that provides a great lifetime adventure experience. It is known for the series of beautiful turquoise lakes in the Gokyo Valley and the famous Cho La Pass, which leads you through the landmarks of the Khumbu region in the company of majestically soaring mountains, friendly Sherpas, colorful monasteries, the Namche Bazaar, the Sagarmatha National Park, and, of course, to the base of the mighty Everest. The trek to the base of the world's tallest mountain maps out spectacular vistas from such celebrated viewpoints as Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar and then encounters the sight of the thrilling Khumbu Icefall. The Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes, in a nutshell, will be a lifetime experience with the enthralling sights of Mt. Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Nuptse, Amadablam, Pumori, and Tengboche Monastery, the region’s most active monastery in the Khumbu region. This trek is best for trekkers who wish to take on more challenges and "stay off the beaten path." However, if you are a novice trekker who is in good health and has average physical fitness, then the Everest Base Camp Trek (14 days) might be right for you. 

Main features of the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake:

  • Discover the slopes of Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world.
  • Savor the splendor of the Gokyo Valley's glistening turquoise lakes.
  • Enjoy the expansive vistas of Lhotse, Nuptse, and Everest from Kala Patthar.
  • Enjoy the breathtaking vistas of the Khumbu Icefall.
  • Go across the terrifying Cho La Pass (5417 m) and enrich your venturing story.
  • Find yourself at the iconic Everest Base Camp (5363 m)
  • Contemplate the vibrant monasteries situated in the Sherpas' backyards.
  • Excursion to Kala Patthar for a close look at the world's highest peak.
Itinerary
Expand all

During the 35 minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2800m), we enjoy one of the most beautiful air routes in the world culminating on a hillside surrounded by high mountainous peaks. At Lukla, a gateway destination from where our trek begins, we meet our other crew members and begin packing and arranging with them. From Lukla, we start trekking. At one hour’s gradual descent, we will be at a Cheplung village from where we have a glimpse of Mt. Khumbila (18900 ft), a sacred mountain which has never been climbed. From Cheplung, we then gradually descend until we reach Phakding and spend the night.

Trekking through a attractive pine forest, we follow the trail north up the valley of Benkar. We then cross Dudh Koshi River and go on passing Chumoa to Monjo, the entrance to Everest National Park. Then after crossing a suspension bridge, we pass Jorsale village and walk alongside of the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers. A steep ascent brings us to the prime heartland of Sherpa village - Namche Bazaar. At one hour’s distance to reaching Namche Bazaar, if the weather permits, we can view the sights of Mt. Everest and Mt. Lhotse. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

There are plenty of things to do around Namche Bazaar, and we can spend a day here acclimatizing. Namche Bazaar is the main centre of the Khumbu region and has government offices, ATMs, Internet cafes, shops, restaurants, and a colorful market. Our guides can take us to explore the real charm of Namche Bazaar. Hiking to Sagarmatha National Park rewards trekkers with a sunrise view and the views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kongde and so on. If we are interested in a day hike, we trek to Khumjung village (12401 ft)-a beautiful village with a Sherpa settlement. In exploring Namche Bazar, we observe traditional Sherpa life, Khumjung Hillary School, and enjoy flora and fauna found at such altitude. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

We climb the Khumjung hill and descend to the east of the village down the broad valley leading to the Dudh Koshi from where the route turns north. There are two trails and our guide will choose the best option for us to follow. There is a chorten on the ridge top at 3973 m which descends from Mt. Khumbila (5761 m). We visit Mohang, the birthplace of the re-incarnated Lama of Rongbuk Monastery of Tibet who is believed to have introduced Buddhism in the Khumbu region of Nepal. The trail descends in a series of steep switchbacks down a sandy slope to the Dush Koshi. We stay overnight in Phortse Tanga, near the river.

From Phortse Thanga it is an uphill climb to Machhermo. We walk on a trail alongside a rhododendron forest and pass through a waterfall before reaching Tongba Village. We continue our uphill trek and pass through Dhole, Labarma and Luza villages before reaching Machhermo. There is a Chhorten right before the Luza village. Throughout today’s journey we will be walking alongside the Dudh Koshi River. Overnight in Machhermo.

We begin today by climbing a ridge for an excellent view down the valley to Kangtaiga and also up towards Cho Oyu (8153 m). The valley now widens as the trail passes through Phangkha, where an avalanche in 1995 killed 40 people. We then descend to the riverbank before climbing onto the terminal moraine of the Ngazumpa Glacier on a steep trail. Upon crossing an iron bridge over a stream, the trail levels out as it follows the valley past the first lake, known as Longpongo, at 4690 m. At this juncture, we get a chance to observe 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 lake, Dudh Pokhari. Overnight in Gokyo.

Gokyo Ri excursion in the morning, is demanding as it is steep and takes about 2 to 3 hours to reach the top. But the scenery of Gokyo village, on the edge of third lake overlooked by Cholatse and the broad Nogzumpa Glacier, is magnificent. We are surrounded by panoramic mountains like Kusum Kanguru, Thamserku, Kangtega, Taboche, Cholatse, Makalu, Lhotse, Nuptse, Everest, Changtse, and Pumori. The sight of sunrays kissing Everest which towers over all the surrounding peaks is astounding. We trek through the Ngazumpa Glacier to the mountain on the other side. Next, traverse along the edge of that mountain and then meander into Thagnak. It will be a short hike today with an afternoon of rest which will prepare us for long hiking days and elevation gain to come.

Today is going to be one of the toughest days of the trip. The Cho La 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 may cause trouble by making the trail slippery. The trail from Phedi climbs through a ravine and a rocky trail. While trekking through the side of a frozen lake, we reach at 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 soars to the west and Lobuche East and Baruntse rises sharply to our right. We need to pass through some crevasses before we reach Dzongla Village. The village provides great views of Cholatse, Ama Dablam, Lobuche mountains along with the Pheriche Village far below.

This will be a very short trek so we have a lot time to relax and enjoy the beauty that surrounds us. We climb down from Dzongla and walk through a grassy trail while enjoying the view of Lobuche Peak. The trail curves through the wide river bed before reaching Lobuche. We can spend the rest of day taking a rest which will help us prepare for the next day’s long trek. Overnight in Lobuche.

We take the trail to Everest Base Camp through the once vast Gorak Shep Lake. Continuing straight ahead, we come across the Indian army mountaineers' memorials. The path from here can be misleading; hence, it is important that we follow our lead Sherpa diligently. The walk is strenuous due to thin air in the high altitude. We pass through rocky dunes, moraine and streams before reaching the Everest Base Camp. Upon reaching the Everest Base Camp, we see tents of mountaineers that stand out in bright colors against the monotony of gray surroundings (especially in the spring). Nuptse, Khumbuste and Pumori are the mountains we can view from the base camp. We get back to Gorak Shep for a good night's rest. Overnight in Gorak Shep. However, the sunset view from Kala Patthar is more admirable than the sunrise view, so it is recommended that we visit Kala Patthar today during sunset. As the setting sun's rays strike the snow-capped mountains, the resulting scenery is incredible. Therefore, for those trekkers who wish to continue to Kala Patthar today instead of the next day please inform your guide and he/she will coordinate accordingly.

We prepare for an early morning departure, amid pre-dawn darkness and cold temperatures (-10 to -13 C). Plus, there is always the potential for chilly winds which are quite common. Familiar peaks such as Lingtren, Khumbutse, and Changtse tower to the east even as Everest begins to reveal itself. But, it is upon reaching Kala Patthar that we get to see 360 degree up-close and formidable views of Mt. Everest. We take pictures, enjoy the magnificent mountain panorama, and then return back to Lobuche for a good night's rest. Overnight in Pheriche.

Trek to Namche Bazaar via Tengboche where we can visit region's most active Buddhist monastery on the way. Today we will walk some 8 hours. 

The trail descends steeply downward so we need to walk cautiously 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. After our arrival in Lukla, we stretch those sore legs and recall the experiences of the last couple of days. Overnight in Lukla.

Lukla Flight Update: This alters when going to the Everest Treks

Because of high air traffic congestion in Kathmandu’s only airport that is for both international and domestic flights. CAAN (Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal) decided to continue the Lukla flight from Manthali in the Ramechhap district during the peak trekking season. This flight diverts has significantly altered the logistics for the Everest treks. To accommodate this change, we will have to adjust your departure schedule on the first day of your journey, our guide will pick you up from your accommodation around 1:00 to 2:00 AM and drive to Manthali (132 KM / 3 to 4 hours drive) to catch morning scenic flight to Lukla

A good option! Going to Manthali a day before your flight to Lukla for comfortable travel rather than rushing up. This will just require an extra day. Speak/write to your trip planner while booking.

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Cost Details
Includes
  • A registered and friendly local Sherpa guide.
  • 1 high-altitude porter for 2 travelers (weight limit: 25 kg plus their stuff).
  • Meals: 13 breakfasts, 14 and 13 dinners during the trek.
  • Lodge accommodation during the trek.
  • Kathmandu-Lulkla-Kathmandu round (cost: USD 450.00 per person) and airport taxes.
  • All necessary trekking permits for Everest BC Trek via Gokyo.
  • Food, accommodation, and salary of your guide and porters.
  • Insurance and trekking gear for guide and porter.
  • Taxes and paperwork fees.
Excludes
  • Accommodation, meals, and transfers in Kathmandu.
  • Guided sightseeing and monuments entrance fees in Kathmandu
  • Hard drinks, beverages such as Coke, Fanta, and mineral water.
  • Hot shower, hot water, wifi, and battery charge during trekking.
  • Personal travel insurance, internet, phone calls, laundry,
  • Rescue operation charge in case of emergency.
  • Tipping your guide and porters.
Dates & Availability
Select Departure Dates
Apr 2025
May 2025
Jun 2025
Jul 2025
Aug 2025
Sep 2025
Oct 2025
Nov 2025
Departure Date
Starts: Apr 26, 2025Ends: May 09, 2025
Price
US$1299
US$1430
Status
Available

Check our published date! If it doesn’t match, we are happy to customize your tour perfectly to suit your interests and needs. Contact us for creating a unique travel experience for you

Essential Information

Nepal Government Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal has announced an issue for the flight operation to Lukla. Most of the flights to Lukla will diverted from Manthali at Ramechhap until further notice to avoid the serious traffic congestion in Kathmandu airport. The airport in Ramechhap is located 130km from Kathmandu (approximately 4 hours drive).

As an alternative, helicopter arrangements can be made on 5 people sharing basis with the addition of USD 500 for one way flight per person to change your airplane flights to the helicopter. We will try to coordinate and figure out groups at the airport for this arrangement, but we cannot promise it. The drive to Ramechhap and flight to Lukla is almost always guaranteed unless the flight is canceled due to bad weather situation.

Travelers are requested to inform us on the preferred alternatives for the flights to/from Lukla affected due to possible delays or disruptions.

What Our Clients are Saying?
based on 3 reviews
An unforgettable trip – Highly recommend!

Perfectly organized trip by Wilderness Excursion. Outstanding mountains views from high peaks such as Gokyo Peak and Kalapatthar all above 5000 meters above seas level and the Chola Pass was really demanding. Thank you Pradip, Rahul and Kumba for two...

read more +
Marek N
Marek N- Poland
April 08, 2023
Wonderful Trek to Everest Base Camp

A wonderful experience with Wilderness Excursion to Everest Base Camp. 

It has been an unforgettable trekking of 10 days in Khumbu Valley. Everything was very well organized by Pradip and his team. Many thanks to Guide Aital that was able...

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E
Emanuele Perucconi- Italy
May 06, 2019
Professional organization & excellent guide!

We booked tickets to Lukla and a guide and porter for our trek to Everest Base camp through Wilderness Excursion Kathmandu and were more than satisfied. Pradip was very helpful for the organization of our trek by giving important advice...

read more +
Natalia Fokina
Natalia Fokina- Ukraine
April 25, 2018
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