Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes
Duration
14
Group Size
Max Elevation
Difficulty
Challenging
Start & End Point
Kathmandu
Accomodation
Bed and Breakfast and Dinner
Permit
yes
Discount
Best Time
Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Highlights
- Scenic 40-minute flights Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu
- Namche Bazaar - the Sherpa Capital
- Sagarmatha National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Impressive view of Khumbu Ice Fall
- Amazing views from Gokyo Ri (5,357m / 17,575ft)
- Hidden Gokyo valley, Gokyo Lake, and Cho La Pass (5,420m)
- Prayer wheels, colorful flags, Mani stones, high suspension bridges
- World’s highest altitude airport
- Everest Base Camp (5,364m)
- Stunning views of peaks over 8000m including Mt. Everest (8,848m)
- Edmund Hillary funded schools and hospital
The Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes is an incredible journey that takes you through some of the most beautiful and remote regions of the Himalayas. This trek is perfect for those who are looking for a more challenging and off-the-beaten-path experience, as it takes you through the stunning Gokyo Valley and over the challenging Cho La Pass. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to explore ancient Buddhist monasteries, visit traditional Sherpa villages, and take in some of the most breathtaking views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks.
The trek begins in the charming town of Lukla, where you'll embark on a journey that takes you through lush forests, across rushing rivers, and up steep mountain trails. As you gain altitude, the scenery becomes more and more breathtaking, with snow-capped peaks and glaciers looming on the horizon. You'll also have the chance to explore the stunning Gokyo Lakes, which are a series of high-altitude glacial lakes that are surrounded by towering peaks.
As you make your way toward Everest Base Camp, you'll pass through some of the most iconic locations in the Himalayas, including the Sherpa village of Namche Bazaar and the base camp itself. The final ascent to the base camp is a challenging but rewarding experience, as you'll be rewarded with some of the most spectacular views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks. With expert guides and comfortable accommodations, this trek is the perfect way to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Himalayas.
Typical Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, one of our representatives will warmly welcome you. You’ll be escorted to your hotel in our private tourist vehicle. During the pre-trip meeting, you’ll have the opportunity to meet your trip guide and address any questions or concerns you may have about your upcoming mountain trekking adventure with one of our team members.
Manthali to Lukla Flight (March, April, May, October, and November) During peak seasons, such as March, April, May, October, and November, the flight to Lukla will be operated from Ramechhap/Manthali due to air traffic expansion. The Manthali/Ramechhap airport is about a 5 to 6 hours drive away from Kathmandu. On this day we wake up at 1:30 to 2:30 am and take an escorted shuttle to Manthali airport on a shared tourist vehicle and board a 20-minute flight to Lukla. Kathmandu to Lukla Flight (January, February, June, July, August, September, and December) The flight to Lukla is typically operated from Kathmandu during nonpeak seasons, which include January, February, June, July, August, September, and December. Please be aware that the decision regarding the operation of flights solely depends on the airline and is influenced by the volume of travelers during a specific month. On this day we wake up at 5 to 6 am. Our staff will escort you to the domestic airport terminal in Kathmandu and board a 35-minute flight to Lukla. Prepare your luggage for the trek the day before the flight. You will be arriving at the Tenzing Hillary Airport early in the morning. Breakfast in Lukla. Porters will meet the group in Lukla and are assigned to carry luggage. For every two clients, one porter is assigned. Today we trek to Phakding. The trail is straightforward. We head out of Lukla and follow the Dudh Koshi River downhill. The route connects to the Namche Bazaar trail, just above Chaurikharka (2,713 m/8,900 ft). Continuing, we come across the small village of Ghat. After a brisk hike, we arrive at Phakding.
After breakfast, we follow the trail alongside the Dudh Koshi River while crossing suspension bridges along the way. After hiking for a while, we come upon Sagarmatha National Park and go through entry permit verification in the Everest region. As the trek advances, we ascend a steep climb with astonishing perspectives of majestic Himalayas, splashing glacial rivers, multi-colored prayer flags, and sacred mani stones. We arrive in the charming Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar in the early evening.
Trekking at higher elevations can lead to altitude sickness and other severe illnesses. That is why it is a must to acclimate to the increasing elevation. The initial acclimatization day on this trek is scheduled in Namche Bazaar. Namche Bazaar the main trading center in the Everest Region run by the Sherpa people. Here you can purchase various things such as trekking equipment, and local handicrafts, as well as find accommodations like hotels and guesthouses. On this day, we acclimate at Namche Bazaar by hiking nearby destinations. We make our way to Sherpa Cultural Museum and discover the history and culture of the Sherpa community. Afterward, we hike up to Syangboche Airport (the highest airport in Nepal) and Hotel Everest View (the highest hotel on the planet), one of the best viewpoints in the Everest region. Gorgeous vistas of Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, and other peaks can be seen from here.
The trail to Tengboche is rocky. The route descends early in the day and then climbs up to Tengboche. Begin the trek advancing along the Dudh Koshi River. Witness the enchanting sight of the mountains along the way. Advance to Phungi Thenga, passing through lovely rhododendron forest. On moving further, you arrive at Tengboche with an astonishing view of Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse and Nuptse. The stunning views of lush rhododendron forest, glacier, rivers, and monasteries along the EBC trail is rewarding. After arriving in Tengboche, we visit the Tengboche Monastery and observe Lamas performing a prayer ceremony either in the morning or evening.
After spending a night in Tengboche, we head for Dingboche in the morning. The trek moves on to Deboche through the alpine forest, and we cross Imja Khola via a suspension bridge. On the way, we come across a wall inscribed with stones. Later in the day, you will be rewarded with a captivating view of Ama Dablam. After we ascend to the village of Pangboche and follow the trail leading to Imja Valley. At long last, we reach Dingboche village after making an ascent.
After acclimating for the first time at Namche, we will have a rest day today. Adapting to the increasing altitude and changing environment is essential for the human body to prevent altitude sickness. Today we acclimate by making a hike to Nangkartsang peak. The view of Ama Dablam from the peak is awe-inspiring. After the acclimatization hike, you can explore the village or relax in the teahouse.
On this day, we leave for Lobuche by hiking a gentle climb to Thukla. From this point, you’ll be stunned by the splendid sight of Taboche and Cholatse. Continuing, we pass through the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier and stone memorials at Thukla Pass. These stone memorials are constructed in the memory of the departed souls of climbers, adorned by colorful prayer flags. After a brisk hike, we arrive in Lobuche village. The massive mountain vistas of Nuptse, Lobuche, and Pumori can be seen from the village.
Today there are two sections of the EBC trek. First, the trail follows the route to Gorak Shep and then to Mount Everest Base Camp. After having breakfast, we leave Lobuche, hiking along the Khumbu glacier while enjoying the magnificent view of Mt. Nuptse. Soon we reach the village of Gorak Shep. From this point, we continue our trek all the way to Everest Base Camp. The trail ahead is challenging as it is rugged terrain. The captivating view of Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu Icefall is visible along the way. Once we reach base camp, you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, Khumbutse, and surrounding peaks. It’s a great feeling to be present at the base of the world’s highest mountain. In addition, we may encounter expedition teams and climbers during peak seasons. We then retrace the path back to Gorak Shep.
Today we hike to the highest point of the Everest Base Camp Trek, Kala Patthar. The hike begins very early in the morning with a breathtaking sunrise view over the giant mountains. Kala Patthar is an excellent vantage point for the incredible view of Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, and Mount Everest. Embrace every moment of joy and sensational feelings you experience while in Mount Everest’s lap. After enjoying quality time, we make our way down to Gorak Shep and resume our EBC trek following the route down to Pheriche village.
After a hearty breakfast, we move down to Namche, hiking along the trail we had taken earlier. As the trek progresses, we come across Pangboche village, following Tengboche village. We cross a suspension bridge and enter the forest trail hiking until we arrive in Namche Bazaar.
The adventure of hiking Everest Base Camp ends today once we reach Lukla. We leave Namche Bazaar for Lukla after breakfast. Since this is your last day in the Everest region, take a walk around the village. Enjoy and celebrate the lifelong moments made along trails of the region.
Lukla to Manthali Flight (March, April, May, October, and November) The flight from Lukla to Manthali is a 20-minute flight. After that, it is about a 5 to 6 hour drive to Kathmandu. Please note that the driving hours may vary according to the highway traffic condition. You’ll be transferred to the hotel in Kathmandu on a shared tourist vehicle. Lukla to Kathmandu Flight (January, February, June, July, August, September, and December) The flight from Lukla takes about 35 minutes. After arriving at the airport, you will be transferred to the hotel in Kathmandu via a shared tourist vehicle. Please be aware that the decision regarding the operation of flights solely depends on the airline and is influenced by the volume of travelers during a specific month.
It’s the end of our exciting journey in the Everest region! Today we conclude our 14 days Everest Base Camp Trekking. One of our airport representatives will accompany you to the International Airport for your flight back home. We bid you farewell, and hoping you’ll travel to Nepal again.
Inclusion
- All (international and domestic) airport transfers on a tourist vehicle
Twin-sharing/double accommodation in a 3-star hotel for 2 nights in Kathmandu including breakfast (Private room accommodation can be organized at an extra cost) - Twin-sharing guesthouse accommodation during the trek for 11 nights in the Everest Region with attached toilets in Lukla, Phakding & Namche
All your standard meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) including one hot drink and seasonal fruits - Experienced, first-aid trained, government licensed, English-speaking Ace the Himalaya's trekking guide
Permits for Sagarmatha/Everest National Park and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) - Porters during the trek for carrying luggage (1 porter for every 2 clients)
Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance, and medications for all staff - Filtered water in the trails using Water Filter or using water purification tablets
- Round-trip airfare between Kathmandu/Manthali and Lukla
1 Ace the Himalaya’s duffel/kit bag, trekking map, sun hat, Buff (Neck Gaiter) and trip completion certificate - A farewell dinner on the last night in Nepal
- All administrative expenses and government taxes
Exclusion
- Meals (lunch and dinner) in Kathmandu
- International flight fare and airport departure tax
- Any beverages including bottled and boiled water
- Travel insurance along with high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage
- Tips to trekking staff and driver
- Nepal Entry Visa (Visa can be acquired easily after your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu with a fee of USD 50 for 30 days visa and USD 125 for 90 days visa)
- Personal Trekking gear and equipment
- Any expenses other than the Price Include section
Faq
The trek is considered to be challenging and requires a good level of physical fitness. It is important to have a good level of cardiovascular fitness, strength, and endurance. It is also important to be able to walk for several hours a day, carrying a backpack.
The best time to go on the trek is between September and November when the weather is clear and stable. The trek can also be done in the spring, between March and May, but the weather can be unpredictable.
Typically, USD 15 to 20 per person per day will be sufficient. This is to purchase water, tea/espresso, snacks, and hot showers in the mountains and for lunch or dinner in Kathmandu. Additionally, if you want to buy souvenirs or native Nepali goods, you can bring extra cash with you.
Our treks have no age restrictions if members are healthy and willing. We warmly welcome trekkers of all ages to embark on this incredible adventure. We have had families with kids as young as 5 years do the treks along this region, and our oldest adventurers have been in their late 70s. For more information, check out our blog titled Everest Base Camp Trek with Kids.
The Everest Base Camp Trekking in Nepal is somewhat challenging due to the altitude and long duration of the trek. It is a strenuous journey that comprises walking 5 to 8 hours a day. If you’re curious about the specific challenges and preparation needed, check out our blog on Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty for more insights.