Everest Base Camp Gokyo Trek

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Trip Name:  

Everest Base Camp Gokyo Trek

Grade:

 Difficult

Duration: 

18 days

Altitude: 

5,545 m

Activities: 

Walking and Sightseeing

Accommodation: 

Hotel, Lodge and Camping

Transport: 

Bus/Jeep/Car/Plane/Helicopter

Best Season:

March-May Sept-Nov

Everest Base Camp Trekking via Gokyo Lakes (4,750 m) across Chho La Pass is recognized for beautiful series of lakes in the Gokyo Valley and famous Chho La Pass. This trail takes us through the landmarks of the Khumbu region in the vicinity of majestically soaring mountains, famous monasteries, beautiful forests, Khumbu Icefall, and breathtaking views of five glacial lakes around Gokyo Valley.

The Gokyo Cho La Pass to the Everest Base Camp Trek route has the spectacular views of Mt. Everest from Gokyo Ri. Trekkers will get the feeling of contentment after walking to the base camp of the world’s highest peak in the world. This trek will be a lifetime experience with the enchanting views of Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Pumori, and Tengboche Monastery. We walk through the canyon of the raging Imja Khola River with blue glacial melted waters. A highlight of this trek is the steep climb up to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) to view snow-capped peaks.

The Everest Base Camp Trekking via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass itinerary will be ideal for hikers who wish to catch up more challenge and “stay off the beaten path” while trekking upon Khumbu region. The trekking route leads you through Rhododendron and Pine forests, past chortens, and Buddhist prayer flags all over the way. The chance of gathering experiences of a mountain climb, walking through high altitude on a snowy path, crossing Pass, walking through huge waterfalls, and hanging around Local villages of Sherpas, Gurung, and Rai will motivate you to plan the next trip. More importantly, your heart will be flourished by the behavior of the people you meet during your trek.

 

Is prior experience required to Everest Base Camp Gokyo Trek?

Everest Base Camp Trekking via Gokyo Lake will be an adventure for them too, who are thinking to trek on high altitude without prior experience to mountain climbing. The difficulties level is medium and challenging. We suggest you take proper Medicare and other essential equipments with you.

 When is the best season for EBC Gokyo Trek?

The best season to trek Everest Base Camp is in spring and autumn. The month from early September to November and late February to May are favorable. Heavily rainfall in summer makes the trekking route muddy and slippery.

Itinenary
Day 1

Arrival in Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu (1300 m. /4264 ft.)

Our airport representative from Blue Lake Travels and Tours will be greeted when you arrive at the Kathmandu airport. After completing your custom formalities (Visa, etc.) pick up your luggage and look for our representative with a display of your name board at the arrival gate. You will be then transferred to the 'Hotel Vaishali' or a similar category hotel. After check-in, you can either take a rest, hang around in the city, or visit our office, depending upon your interests and condition. In the evening we will prepare a "Welcome Dinner" at an exquisite traditional Nepalese Restaurant where you will enjoy a Nepalese cultural program along with Nepalese Cuisine. Included meal: Dinner (D)

Day 2

Kathmandu (1300 m/4264 ft.): Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

After sumptuous breakfast, we take you on a guided day trip to world heritage sites within a Kathmandu valley and highlights of the surrounding area. We then visit the Pilgrimage sites of Hindu temple PASHUPATI NATH, one of the most important shrines of Shiva temples on the subcontinents which are home to thousands of devotees and Sadhus (holy men). Similarly, you visit BOUDHA NATH other pilgrimage centers which are a very popular and important place for Buddhists. After having lunch on the way proceed to SWAYAMBHUNATH also known as monkey temple perched on the hilltop on the southwest part of Kathmandu. Then we visit the Paten and Kathmandu Durbar square where we find temple ancient architecture and fine art as well as living goddess KUMARI. If you like to spend more days we recommend you to visit Kritipur, Bungmati, Bhaktapur, Thimi, and Nagarkot as well as Everest flight known as mountain flight. For those programs, you have to prolong your travel day more than pointed out in Itinerary.

Day 3

Kathmandu - Lukla (2,800 m. /9,184 ft.) - Phakding (2,652 m. /8,700 ft.) - 3-4 hrs.

Early in the morning our breakfast, we will be transferred to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu Airport for an early morning flight to Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft), a gateway destination from where our trek begins. After an adventurous 35 minute flight above the breathtaking green and white mountains, we reach the Tenzing-Hillary Airport at Lukla. It is one of the most beautiful air routes in the world completing in an exciting landing on a hillside enclosed by high mountains peaks. Upon arrival at Lukla, we gather our other crew members and after some packing and arrangements, start our trek through the flourishing village of Lukla until we reach Phakding. To aid in acclimatization, we only have a short hike today. However, if interested in further activities we can take a side trip to a nearby monastery. Overnight in Phakding at Yeti Mountain Home or similar hotel. Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)

Day 4

Phakding - Namche Bazaar (3,440 m. /11,283 ft.) - 5-6 hrs.

Our trek begins in the morning after breakfast. The walk today is pleasant with a few short uphill and downhill with multiple crossings over the Dudh Koshi River and a magnificent view of Mt. Thamserku (6,608m/21,675ft) from the Benkar village. We cross more bridges and reach the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo, where our trekking permits are checked to keep a record of trekkers and local trekking staffs as well. A descend and a gradual walk brings us to Jorsale, the last village until Namche Bazaar. The walk is delightful through the river bed and we reach Hillary Suspension Bridge. Now, as we climb uphill towards Namche Bazaar, the closer and magnificent scene of Kwangde Peak, Kusum Kangaru, Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Tawache, and many other amazing mountains. We stop at Chautara to cherish the view. Finally, we reach the colorful village of Namche Bazaar, the main gateway of the Khumbu region. Overnight in Namche Bazaar. (B, L, D)

Day 5

Namche Bazaar: Acclimatization Day

This is the programmed 'acclimatization' day for this trek. Health experts always advise us to stay active and moving during the rest day too rather than being idle. We either kill the day taking a day hike to Thame or touring Khunde or resting and exploring Namche Bazaar itself. Namche Bazaar is the central hub of the Everest (Khumbu) region and a colorful bazaar each Friday evening and Saturday. It also has government offices, ATMs, Internet cafes, shops, restaurants, a bakery and many more. If we trek a few hundred vertical feet during the day, it will help us to properly acclimatize. We also visit the Tourist Visitor Center near the headquarter of the Sagarmatha National Park where we can observe a variety of things related to the first Everest ascenders, Sherpa culture and learn about the diverse plant and animal life of the Everest region. We also take an exciting side trip up to Khumjung. We further climb up to the popular airstrip at Syangboche. The Khumjung valley is enclosed by the snowy mountains of Kongde and Thamserku and the divine peak Khumbila hosts a well-known monastery that houses a yeti scalp. We also visit Hillary School which is located at the same site. After having lunch and spending some time in Khumjung, we go back to Namche Bazaar. Overnight in Namche Bazaar. (B, L, D).

Day 6

Namche Bazaar - Dole-(4,110 m/ 13,152 ft.): 6 - 7 hrs.

Today we ascend steeply out of Namche Bazaar up to Kyangjuma Village. Kyangjuma, we can enjoy outstanding views of Thamserku, Katanga, and Ama Dablam. The most exhausting ascent of the day is to pass the Mong La, a very attractive place rested on the spur of Mt. Khumbila. An ancient historical Chorten stands at the center of the settlement of Mong La. We stop at the top of Mong La to admire the grandest views of surrounding snow-capped mountains and valleys while having lunch. The most prominent specialty of the trail today is the bounty of plant and animal vegetation including wildflowers and Rhododendrons. While on the way it will not be unusual to spot wild lives like pheasants, mountain goats, and the elusive musk deer. Traversing through forests, some waterfalls, and bridges, we reach at Dole, a small place with few teahouses. Overnight at Dole. (B, L, D)

Day 7

Dole - Machherma - (4,470 m/ 14,663 ft.): 4 - 5 hrs.

First, we climb steadily up through an exciting range above Dole and the trail ascends via Lhabarma at 4220m to Luza at 4360m. The path is sheer in most places as we pass through thorny bushes up to Lhabarma. The trail takes us through many summer settlements and a charming hamlet of Luza (4360 m) offering us good views of Cho Oyu, Kantega, and Thamserku. While ascending from Luza, the Dudh Koshi Valley is deep like a gorge with its steep sides. Walking along the hill side above thundering Dudkoshi passing through some small hamlets and 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 the village before draining into the Dudh Koshi. It is the place where Khumbu people got the first sighting of Yeti in 1974. At this juncture, we pay our visit to the Himalayan Rescue Hospital for a lecture regarding the altitude sickness, its precaution, and primary treatment. Overnight at Machherma (B, L, D)

Day 8

Machherma - Gokyo (4800 m/15,744 ft.): 4 - 5 hrs.

We climb through a range Chorten from where we can see a wonderful scene of both down the valley and of the Mt. Kangtega, Thamserku, and northern part of 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. Phangka is the palace where an avalanche in 1995 killed 40 people. We descend to the river bank before starting to climb up to the final moraine of the Ngozamba Glacier. After crossing an iron bridge over a stream, the tracks levels out as it follows the valley past the first lake, known as Longpongo at 4690m, where we get an opportunity to witness the Lama footprints on a stone. Whereas at the sight of the second lake, Taboche Tsho we become mesmerized by the glittering 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 is nearby the third lake and Cho-Oyu Mountain as a backdrop sets an astonishing magnificent sight at this juncture. After lunch, we explore the third Lakes, Dudh Pokhari. We spend the night at a teahouse with comfortable bedrooms. Overnight at Gokyo. (B, L, D)

Day 9

Gokyo Valley: Acclimatization Day - Optional Hike to 5th and 6th Lakes

It is a full rest day or an acclimatization day but we should not stay idle. If the weather is good, we seize the opportunity to climb Gokyo Ri today instead of the next day to enjoy the spectacle from the best viewpoint of the Everest Region. Or, as we know Gokyo is not only popular for its grand view from Gokyo Peak but also for the six lakes which it hosts. We would not miss the chance to observe the fourth lake (Thonak Tsho) and the fifth lake (Ngozuma Tsho). About 3 km north of Gokyo dwells the fourth lake with its high cliffs and peaks towering above it. The trail continues to the fifth lake. If interested, we ascend on a hill at the edge of the lakes to get astounding scenes of Cho-Oyu, Gyachung Kang, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makalu. The spot is called Scoundrel's Viewpoint from where we can see a lot more. Surpassing the fifth Lakes, we will be at Cho Oyu Base Camp. The scenery here is breathtaking with Cho Oyu and Gyachung Kang seeming just a stone's throw away. The northern part of the fifth lake provides fabulous views of Cho-Oyu Base Camp and the 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 interest and time. Back to Gokyo village. Overnight at Gokyo. (B, L, D)

Day 10

Hike - Gokyo Ri (5357 m/17,570 ft.) - Thaknak (4750 m/15,580 ft.): 4 - 5 hrs.

If Gokyo Ri has not been mapped out the day before we trek there today. Gokyo Ri is the highlight of this trip. We hike up to the Gokyo Ri (Gokyo Peak) in the early morning. Climbing to Gokyo Ri is 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 the third lake overlooked by Cholatse and the broad Nogzumpa Glacier are mind-blowing. We feel like we are encircled by panoramic mountains like Kusum Kanguru, Thamserku, K 43, Kangtega, Taboche, Cholatse, Makalu, Lhotse, Nuptse, Everest, Changtse, and Pumori. The sight of sunrays kissing the Everest that towers over all surrounding peaks are 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. Upon breakfast, we trek to Thaknak for overnight scaling by the second Lakes and the Ngozumba Glacier. Overnight at Thaknak. (B, L, D)

Day 11

Thaknak - Cho-la Pass (5367 m/17,604 ft.) - Dzongla (4830 m /15939 ft.): 7-8 hrs.

Today is the most intricate 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. Though the trail from Phedi climbs through a canyon and a rocky trail we climb up continuously. Trekking through the side of a frozen lake we approach the top of the pass festooned with prayer flags. The pyramidal Ama Dablam stays over a range of mountains on the south even as Cholatse soar on the west and Lobuche East and Baruntse rise distinctly to our right. We need to cross through some chasms before we reach Dzongla, another beautiful place with a complete view of Mt. Cholatse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Lobuche peak and the Pheriche village. Overnight at a very basic local lodge. (B, L, D)

Day 12

Dzongla to Lobuche (4940 m/16,207 ft.): 2 - 3 hrs.

Today's walk will be a bit shorter which leaves us more time to observe and relax. We climb down from Dzongla and cross a bridge and then transverse through a lush trail. We stretch up eventually through a ridge enjoying the view of Lobuche Peak. Ama Dablam, Kangtega, Thamserku Taboche are seen appearing prominently. Curving round through the wide gravelly river bed, we will be at Lobuche. Overnight at Lobuche. (B, L, D)

Day 13

Lobuche - Gorak Shep [5170 m/16,961ft] - Everest Base Camp [5364 m/17,594 ft.] - Gorak Shep: 8 - 9 hrs.

The path to Gorak Shep goes ahead through the oblique moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. As we pass through the pyramid sign post, ahead on the trail we see the top of north ridge of Everest along with Mt. Pumori, Mt. Mahalangur, Mt. Lingtern, Mt. Khumbutse, Mt. Nuptse, etc. A small ascent would take us to Thangma Riju from where we perceive a 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 encounter snow-capped mountains emerging all around us including the top of the world, Mt. Everest. After a short lunch and rest, we take the trail to Everest Base Camp through the once vast Gorak Shep Lake. We come through the Indian army mountaineers' memorials as we continue straight ahead. Only upon reaching the Everest Base Camp do we appreciate the Everest climbers who brave the hazardous route through the Khumbu icefall. Mountaineer's tents stand out in brilliant colors against the boredom of gray surroundings. The mountains such as Nuptse, Khumbuste, and Pumori can be viewed from the base camp. By now we have reached the terminal goal of our trip. Overnight at Gorak Shep (B, L, D)

Day 14

Gorak Shep - Kala Patthar - Pheriche [4280 m/14,070 ft.]: 8 - 9 hrs.

Today is the climax of our trip. We begin early in the morning to catch the exciting scenes from Kala Patthar beholding the first light of day glowing on Mount Everest. Yet, we need to get ready for an early morning, dark and cold temperature (-10 to -14 C) departure. Some of the familiar peaks such as Lingtren, Khumbutse, and Changtse tower to the east even as Everest starts to reveal itself arising between the west shoulder peak and Nuptse. During the ascent to Kala Patthar, we can pause to catch our breath at several outstanding viewpoints to snap pictures. After some hours of an ascent, we reach Kala Patthar. From this time, we struggle to climb the rocky land near to the summit marked by cairns and prayer flags. As we reach the top, we sit on the Kala Patthar where our eyes catch unbelievable majestic Himalayan Panorama, wandering from one mighty massif to another. We take as many pictures as we can and take them in view with our mind's eye to last a lifetime. On being back to Gorak Shep, we have breakfast and wait for other participants to return.

Day 15

Pheriche - Pangboche - Tengboche - Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,280 ft.): 5 - 6 hrs.

Today, we trek down through the hillside blanketed by rhododendron and juniper trees. In the spring, pink and red rhododendron flowers ablaze our surroundings. We either have our lunch in Pangboche or wait until we reach Phunki Tenga for lunch depending on our hunger and condition. 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 ultimately reaches Sansa which is the major trail terminal in the region. We stop at Kyangjuma (3570 m/11,710 ft.) for a comfortable lunch. We unknowingly enjoy the gorgeous Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Nuptse with every bite. After lunch, the trail to Namche Bazaar clasps to the steep forested slope beyond Kyangjuma, winding through several bends. We also keep a lookout for wildlife such as mountain goats, snow leopards, colorful pheasants, etc. while moving through the forest by the trail. After passing a Chorten, we arrive at the army camp at Namche Bazaar. At this point, we would like to take a long last look back to Lhotse, the top of Everest and Tengboche. On reaching our lodge, we take a nice hot shower and have a very relaxed sleep in our room in Namche Bazaar. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

Day 16

Namche Bazaar - Lukla: 6 - 8 hrs.

Today we trek steeply downward so we need to walk slowly and under control as our shaky legs continuously battle the rocky terrain. We go forward crossing the suspension bridges over the fast flowing Dudh Koshi. Although we are traveling the same path down, we feel quite different views. We can witness a mixture of open plains, rhododendron and pine forests, and in the distance snow-covered peaks. While we walk through the Sherpa villages' seeing deep faith in Buddhism and culture of prayer stones and prayers flag. Upon arrival in Lukla, we experience the conclusion of a wonderful trek on a happy note with everyone back safe and sound with a smile on faces! Overnight in Lukla. (B, L, D)

Day 17

Fly Back to Kathmandu

After a long mountain journey, we go back to Kathmandu by flight. The early morning flight drops us in Kathmandu. We can rest and relax throughout the day at a hotel. If anyone is interested to take some gifts as a memo from Nepal for friends and relatives, we can visit some nearby shops or venture out in Thamel for typical Nepalese goods. If we want to explore any other places in Kathmandu, we have to arrange some time for this today as well! In the evening we will be at a fantastic celebration dinner together for completing our trek to Everest Base Camp hosted by Blue Lake Travel and Tours. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 18

Final Departure

Finally, the adventurous journey of the mountain and heritage site of Nepal comes to an end today. We just exchange emails to travel companions and organize our photos. If we have more time we can do some shopping or sightseeing in Kathmandu. At last approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight, a representative from Blue Lake Travels escorts us to the airport.

Fixed Departure
Date Price Avaiable Seat Altitude Book Now
FAQ

Includes

  • Pick up from the airport in your arrival and drop to the airport in departure by private car/ bus
  • Hotel room management
  • Flight from Katmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu
  • Accommodation at the four-star hotel or similar category in the Kathmandu city
  • Tea Houses and all meal during the Trekking
  • Sightseeing in Kathmandu valley and heritage sights
  • TIMS and permit
  • Management of meals according to contract (Breakfast, Lunches, and Dinners)
  • License holder local guide based your language
  • Available of local staff and their insurance
  • Accommodation, food, insurance, salary, and equipped staff throughout your trekking
  • Government charges on the behalf of office site
  • Official expenses

Excludes

  • Except for the lunch and dinner explained in the itinerary
  • Your travel insurance
  • International tickets and airport tax
  • Visa fees
  • Laundry, cold and hot drinks, and alcoholic drinks
  • Trekking and other equipment related to yourself
  • Other sightseeing and mountain entrances fees not included in cost include a section
  • Tips for guides/porters/other persons
  • Expect the things which are not mentioned in cost include parts

Booking

tour review

Nice Trip

Rated 5 out of 5
February 24, 2020

Nice service and kindness. Good hospitality from the arrival date in Kathmandu. Also, good service on trekking days by the guide. Very nice service and always take care of our group. Good food, beautiful view. I will go to Nepal again with Blue Lake Travels.

Jack Matt
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