Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake - 14 Days

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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

A journey to the legendary Everest Base Camp via tranquil Gokyo Valley, a trek that unveils the soul of the Khumbu region. Traverse the dramatic Cho La Pass, behold the turquoise majesty of the Gokyo Lakes, and hike the Gokyo Ri for a panoramic vista of the world's highest peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. This is more than a trek; it's an immersion into a breathtaking landscape of ancient glaciers, high-altitude flora and fauna, and the enduring culture of Sherpa settlements.

Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes Overview

The Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes is a classic Himalayan adventure through the heart of the Khumbu. This route combines iconic highlights like the serene Gokyo Lakes, the challenging Cho La Pass, and the unforgettable view from Gokyo Ri. Along the way, you will be surrounded by giants like Everest, Pumori, and Lhotse, while experiencing the unique highland environment and vibrant Sherpa culture.

The Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek via the Gokyo Valley is a semi-circuit Everest Trekking widely considered the most spectacular and varied route in the Khumbu region. It combines the classic Everest Base Camp goal with the breathtaking turquoise lakes and a high mountain pass. We (Wilderness Excursion) share some main highlights of the trek:

Key Attraction of EBC Trek via Gokyo Valley and Its Lakes

  • Namche Bazaar (3340 m | 11280 ft): Namche Bazaar is the bustling gateway to the high Himalayas in Nepal. This vibrant Sherpa town, nestled in a spectacular mountain amphitheater, is a vital acclimatization stop for Everest trekkers. It offers lodges, shops, and a Saturday market, all surrounded by breathtaking, high-altitude scenery.
  • The Spectacular Gokyo Lakes System: The Gokyo Lakes are the focus of the route’s first half. We will trek passing a chain of pristine, turquoise-blue lakes, sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. The most renowned is Gokyo 3rd Lake, where the town of Gokyo sits on its shore. The view of these sparkling waters set against a backdrop of towering peaks is absolutely remarkable. 
  • Summiting Gokyo Ri (5,357m | 17,575 ft): Gokyo Peak, often considered the "best viewpoint in the Everest Trek," the hike to the summit of Peak is a tough but extremely pleasing half-day endeavor. From the top, you are treated to a panoramic vista of four 8,000m+ giants: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, as well as the entire Ngozumpa Glacier and the Gokyo Lakes below. 
  • Traversing Adventurous Chola La Pass (5420 m | 17,777 ft): This is one of the high mountain passes, "Everest Three Passes Trek," and a major adventure highlight. The climb is challenging, but the sense of achievement upon reaching the prayer-flag-adorned summit is immense. This Pass also provides the shortcut route between the Standard Everest Base Camp Trek and the Gokyo Valley Trek.
  • Crossing the Ngozumpa Glacier: The Ngozumpa Glacier is another highlight in this trekking route that takes you right along and even across the moraines of the largest glacier in the Himalayas. Walking on its rocky, alien landscape and seeing its vast scale up close is a humbling experience that highlights the raw power of nature.
  • Climbing Kala Patthar to see Mount Everest: While Gokyo Ri provides a wider panorama, Kala Patthar (5545 m | 18187 ft) offers the most iconic and close-up view of Mount Everest (8848 m). The sunset view from here is brilliant, with the sun's rays hitting the summit pyramid and the Khumbu Glacier below, is the quintessential Everest moment and the climax of the trek for many.
  • Find yourself at the Everest Base Camp (5,364m | 17593 ft): Standing at the base of Mount Everest is profound, and the feeling of accomplishment upon reaching the iconic base camp. Though you will not see the summit of Everest from base camp (it's hidden by the massive peaks of the Khumbu Icefall), you'll be standing at the foot of the world's highest mountain, surrounded by the colorful tents of climbers (in spring) and the awe-inspiring icefall itself. 
  • Immersion in Sherpa Culture and Visit Tengboche Monastery: A cultural cornerstone of the trek, Tengboche Monastery is the most significant spiritual center in the Khumbu. Visiting the monastery, listening to the morning prayers with the backdrop of Ama Dablam, and learning about Sherpa Buddhism provides a deep cultural context to the natural beauty.
  • The Iconic View of Ama Dablam: Nicknamed the "Matterhorn of the Himalayas," Ama Dablam is arguably the most beautiful mountain in the region. Its striking, symmetrical peak dominates the skyline for much of the trek, presenting a different and more dramatic perspective from each angle. 
  • The Journey Through Sagarmatha National Park: The entire trek is a journey through a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll experience a dramatic transition in landscapes, from lush rhododendron and pine forests at lower elevations to the stark, high-altitude beauty of the alpine zone, all while spotting wildlife like the Himalayan Thar and, if you're very lucky, the elusive snow leopard.

EBC Trek via Gokyo Ri Planned Route and Draft Itinerary

Day 01: Kathmandu to Lukla by flight and trek to Phakding (2,651m | 8695 ft.)
Day 02: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440 m | 11286 ft ):
Day 03: Extra day at Namche Bazaar (3440 m) to get adapted to the altitude
Day 04: Trek to Phortse Thanga (3680 m | 12070 ft): 5 hours hike,
Day 05: Trek to Machhermo (4470 m | 14660 ft.): 5 hours hike
Day 06: Trek to Gokyo (4800 m | 15745 ft): 5 to 6 hours hiking
Day 07: Hike to Gokyo Ri ( 5357m | 17571 ft.) and trek to Thagnak (4750 m): 4 hours walk.
Day 08: Trek to Dzongla (4830 m | 15842 ft. ) via Cho La Pass (567 m | ): 8 hours
Day 09: Trek to Lobuche (4910 m | 16105 ft): 4 hours trekking
Day 10: Trek to Gorak Shep (5160 m | 16925 ft.) – Day hike EBC (5364 m | 17600 ft.) 7 hours
Day 11: Hike to Kala Patthar (5545 m | 18190 ft.) and walk down Pheriche (4288m): 7 hours
Day 12: Trek to Namche Bazar (3440 m): 7-8 hours walking via Tengboche Monastery.
Day 13: Trek to Lukla (2800 m | 9185 ft.): 7 to 8 hours trekking
Day 14: Take a morning flight to Kathmandu ( 1300 m).

Information on Lukla Flight:
Due to high air traffic congestion at Kathmandu’s only airport, which serves 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 diversion 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 a morning scenic flight to Lukla

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

Standard Trip Cost and Variation, Additional Expense.

The price of the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek via Gokyo Lakes can differ based on your length of tour, style of travel, preferences, and what you ask the agency to include. The classic route goes from Lukla to Namche Bazaar, then diverts west to the Gokyo Valley, crosses the Cho La Pass, and rejoins the main EBC trail for 14 14-day trip will not cost more than USD 1500, booking a similar trip with a local trekking agency in Nepal.

  • The standard trip price: For 14 days Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Valley Package is USD 1299, which covers all necessary logistics: an experienced EBC and Gokyo Ri route guide, a porter, permits, meals, teahouse accommodation, and round-trip flights.
  • Group discount and International Tour Leader concession: An Everest trek specialized trekking agency, like Wilderness Excursion, offers a group discount based on the number of participants booking, and international tour leaders are encouraged to enjoy the low price.
  • Seasonal Rate: We offer a 10% discount in off-season (December to February and June to August) to encourage winter trekking exploration, EBC Trek via Gokyo Lake booking 2026 and 2027.
  • Student & Youth Adventures: Coming with friends or classmates? Save 10% on the trip cost, turn the Khumbu into your ultimate classroom. Wilderness Excursion encourages your explorers to trek with a year-round group discount, discovering soaring snow-peaks and ancient Sherpa culture with friends is more accessible than ever, and bring home stories that last a lifetime.

Additional Trip Costs and Free Savings

Your package already includes a cycle of 3 meals a day and accommodation in a typical tea-house. Yet, assume to spend about USD 20–25 per day on private expenses such as using the internet, hot showers, or charging phones and cameras, etc.

We also help you save money where it counts. We provide complimentary trekking gear, including sleeping bags, down jackets, which can save you up to USD 400 in rental or purchase costs. International airport transfers without extra charge.

Itinerary
Expand all

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Valley Trekking Itinerary Note: 

Our standard EBC trek via Gokyo Lakes itinerary might change slightly due to unpredictable obstacles and events out of our control. Issues such as flight delay/cancellation, adverse weather, natural calamities, newly implemented government rules, political matters, trekker’s health situation, etc., are possible. Evaluating the situation’s possible solutions allows the trek to resume as much as possible based on the best alternatives. In these times, we look for your flexibility and Support if the tour itinerary needs slight change.

Allowing two extra days after your trek is highly suggested. The Lukla flight is infamous for getting delayed or canceled due to weather conditions, and these buffer days help to escape complications with your international travel plans. You also have choices to modify this trip, where you can add on a sightseeing tour in Kathmandu, other adventure activities, or short trips around the country before or after the trek.

Route Map
Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake Map
Altitude Chart
Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake Altitude Chart
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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

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

Why Trekking with Wilderness Excursion?

  • Experienced guide and expert mountain leader: dedicating a trekking agency with expert leaders and experienced guides taking care of all your travel needs.
  • A fully bonded company: At Wilderness Excursion, a leading travel agency in Nepal. We are a certified and fully boned company that trusts in sustainable tourism for the long run.
  • Ethical Behavior with Employees and Field Staff: Wilderness Excursion trusts in sustainable and responsible tourism practices to generate an encouraging impact on working teams, clients, and the community. We realize that if we take care of our staff, they will take care of our clients.
  • Fair Price and group Discount: At Wilderness Excursions, we believe in straightforward pricing. All costs are clearly itemized, and we offer scalable group discounts based on the number of participants. This structure allows your group to access a carefully planned holiday and enjoy the group discount booking at an affordable cost.
  • Recommended by Past Guests and Independent Travelers: Our clients share their honest experiences with Wilderness Excursion on trusted travel sites like TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Trustpilot. Read firsthand reviews and honest feedback from our clients are available on trusted sites.

Gokyo Valley Trek and EBC Traverse Chola Pass – Weather and Temperature

When is the best time or month to trek to Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Peak?

For the EBC trek with Gokyo Valley, the good weather is stable with clear sky and pleasant temperature in daytime and moderate cold at nights in the early morning in months from mid-March to May (spring season) and to autumn (mid-September to November).

Trekking in early June is still okay; typically, trekking in May and June is not that cold. After the second week of June, the monsoon starts, which may affect views and flights. Onward mid-November, the temperature drops every day, but the weather is super clear and offers a brilliant view. This trek is doable around the year, and we can organize it when it suits your schedule.

However, we normally advise doing this trek in the favorable seasons and avoid from rainy season (July and August). In the cold months of January and February, the temperature can be a little harsh in the mountains. Note to be informed, the climate change impact in the Himalaya is intense. We are experiencing usual rain and snowfall over the last few years, so the weather conditions are not accurately predictable.

If you are the one, prefer to travel during less crowded times, you can choose December to February when you are well prepared with appropriate winter wear and other gear. In ga iven time, direct Lukla flights from Kathmandu with less chance of delay and sunny days.

A highly rated sleeping bag for winter nights is suggested.

Gokyo Valley and EBC Trek Recommended Checklist, Clothing, and Gear.

Packing for the Everest Base Camp trek via the Gokyo Lakes requires careful preparation for extreme temperature swings and high-altitude conditions. If you are considering buying or renting in Kathmandu, there are several stores in town, like Thamel. We highly suggest that you pack and prepare with all the items and clothing important for the trek. list below is some of the focal suggestions:

  • -20 degree sleeping bag (rental available in Kathmandu or Lukla)
  • Duffel Bag or Rucksack Bag with a rain cover
  • Thermal Vests and lightweight thermal tops
  • A decent down jacket, Fleece Jacket or Pullover
  • Windbreaker jacket like a Gore-Tex jacket
  • Lightweight Hiking Pants
  • Fleece or trouser pants
  • Thin inner socks and Thick warm wool hiking socks
  • Trekking boots and camp shoes or sandals
  • Wool Hat and Sunglasses
  • Moisturizing skin cream and Lip balm
  • Water bottles and Water purifiers
  • First Aid Kit
  • Toiletries

Here is more information on a comprehensive packing list you can consider adding to your gear regarding the Gokyo Valley and Everest Base Camp Trek checklist. 

Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake - 14 Days FAQs

Wilderness Excursion, a registered trekking agency with at its 14 years of excellence now. The company led by 20 years of experience and guiding expertise. The company has a great reputation for effectively leading treks with knowledgeable mountain guide and trek leaders and staff taking care of all your travel needs. A certified agency with honest guest back is ready to lead your trek. 

The luggage weight limit for the Lukla flight is 15 kg (33 pounds) per passenger, including your duffel bag and hand carry. If your backpack weighs more than the allowed load, you can pay an extra USD 2 to USD 5 per kilogram. We recommend you pack within the 15 kg weight limit which is better than getting an aircraft overload.

In case of scheduled flight to and from Lukla for Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes, a chartered helicopter shared among 5 people (USD 550 per person one way) is an alternative and other option is take a land transportation to Lukla that will require one or two extra days. It is always advised to allow contingency days while trekking in Nepal. Information on Everest Base Camp Trek without Lukla Flight

Yes, Nepal is very safe to travel and trek. The young people's (Gen Z) anti-corruption protest has now been settled. There is a new government now led by Prime Minister Sushila Karki. No political turmoil and threat. And tourists are always safe.

Absolutely. You can extend your trek for an additional daily cost. For private or solo trips, we can easily accommodate this. For group treks, adding extra days is possible but requires agreement from your entire group and guide, as it affects the itinerary for everyone. Please discuss this with your guide, who can then formally request the change on your behalf.

Yes, most of the lodges have Wifi internet. Usually slow. Buying a SIM card is available in Kathmandu that will cost NPR 200 (equal to USD 2), and you can subscribe to 4G data at an additional cost, recharging it for a faster service comparatively. Suggested SIM Card is NTC (Nepal Telecom)

Like in other parts of the world, tipping is very common in the hospitality industry in Nepal too. Those who are directly involved in your service may expect the tips and gratitude. Both your guide and porter may expect the tips at the end of the tour. However, tipping is not mandatory, and it really depends on your intuition. People usually tip 10 to 15 percent of the total value of your trip.

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