Overview
The EBC (Everest Base Camp) and Gokyo Lake Trek is a popular and challenging trekking route in the Everest region of Nepal. It combines the classic Everest Base Camp trek with a visit to the pristine Gokyo Lakes, offering breathtaking views of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest.
After reaching Everest Base Camp, trekkers retrace their steps back to Gorak Shep and then head towards the Gokyo Valley. The trail takes you through the Cho La Pass, a challenging but rewarding high-altitude pass. From there, you’ll descend into the Gokyo Valley, where you’ll encounter a series of stunning turquoise lakes, collectively known as the Gokyo Lakes. The most famous lake among them is the Gokyo Fifth Lake, offering awe-inspiring reflections of the surrounding peaks.
One of the highlights of this trek is the ascent of Gokyo Ri, a peak standing at an elevation of 5,357 meters (17,575 feet). From the summit of Gokyo Ri, trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Himalayan giants, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
The EBC and Gokyo Lake Trek is a physically demanding journey that requires a good level of fitness and previous trekking experience. The high altitude, steep ascents, and variable weather conditions make it essential for trekkers to acclimatize properly and be prepared for the challenges. It is advisable to go with an experienced guide or join a reputable trekking company to ensure safety and maximize the experience.
Overall, the EBC and Gokyo Lake Trek offers a unique opportunity to explore the Everest region, witness its natural beauty, and immerse yourself in the rich Sherpa culture while enjoying stunning mountain vistas along the way.
Detail Itineary
DAY 1 Arrival Kathmandu -1,350m/4,428ft
Upon your arrival in the Kathmandu airport (KTM), you will be greeted by a representative from our Guide. After completing your custom formalities (Visa, etc) pick up your luggage and look for our representative with your name display board at the arrival gate. You will be then transferred to Hotel. After check in, you can take a rest, hang around in the city, visit our office – it all depends upon your interests and condition. In the evening we will organize a “Welcome Dinner” at an excellent traditional Nepalese Restaurant where you will enjoy a Nepalese cultural program as well as a fine meal. Included meal: (D)
Note: The Government of Nepal has announced an issue for the flight operation to Lukla. Most of the flights to Lukla will commence from Ramechhap until further notice to avoid the heavy traffic congestion in Kathmandu airport. The airport in Ramechhap is located 130km from Kathmandu (approximately 3-4 hours drive).
Day 02: Kathmandu- Ramechhap – Lukla (2880m) – Phakding (2835m). 4 to 5 Hours
Our early morning flight by Twin Otter aircraft takes us to Lukla, the most renowned and shortest mountain airstrip in the world. On the flight we watch the rugged foothills give way to the snowline of the Himalaya; many of the world’s highest mountains, including Kanchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu (the world’s 3rd, 4th, and 5th highest respectively). On arrival, we meet our Sherpas, Potter and after a cup of tea, we take the trail out of Lukla. Surprisingly, this high-altitude trek begins by descending to the river at Phakding. we head up the Dudh Koshi Valley on a well-marked trail. Overnight at Phakding.
Day 03: Phakding – Namche Bazaar (3445m). 6 Hours
We continue north following the Dudh Kosi river and on to Jorsale where we enter the Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park. From here it is a short walk to the confluence of two rivers, the lmja Drangpa (Imja Khola) and the Nangpo Tsangpo (Bhote Kosi) followed by a steep climb (for about 2hrs.) to Namche Bazaar, the main town in the Khumbu region. Namche is a prosperous Sherpa town and an important trading centre with a weekly Saturday market.
Namche is the most prosperous and the largest town in the Khumbu Valley. A bazaar is held here every Saturday. The wares on display include meat, grains and vegetables, tennis shoes and trinkets as well as hand woven aprons and Tibetan boots. Thamserku (6648m), Kwangde Ri (6187m) and Khumbila (5707m) surround the natural bowl that Namche rests in.
DAY 04: NAMCHE BAZAAR REST DAY
Namche Bazaar rest day and overnight Namche Bazaar is tucked away between two ridges amongst the giant peaks of the Khumbu. Once named the ‘Trekkers Mecca of Nepal, Namche now boasts an abundance of lodges and souvenir shops. It is an ideal place to spend a rest day, acclimatising to the new altitude of 3450m before heading off towards Gokyo. Options for acclimatisation walks include a visit to Khunde Hospital and also the one hour walk up to the Everest Hotel above Namche for the sunset view of Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse and Everest. Overnight.
DAY 05: NAMCHE BAZAAR – TYANGBOCHE, 3860M, (6 HRS)
From Namche, the trail contours around the side of the valley, high above the Dudh Kosi. Now we get our first really good views of the great peaks of the Khumbu including Mt Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Ama Dablam. Passing by several villages and numerous tea shops, we descend steeply to a bridge over the river at Phunki Tenga. The village is an excellent lunch spot, and here we can rest before making the steep climb to Tengboche. Although tiring, the hike up the zigzag path has numerous distractions, with rhododendron bushes, beautiful birds and superb mountain scenery. Tengboche is famous for its legendary monastery, the largest in the Khumbu. We stay near the monastery with Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam framed in the doorway of our guest house. Overnight.
DAY 06: TYANGBOCHE – DINGBOCHE, 44100M, (6HRS)
After breakfast we head up to Dingbuche. On the way the majestic Amadablam over shadows our day. On the way we meet a little Sherpa village called Pangbuche (3930) continue to Dingbuche for overnight.
DAY 07: DINGBOCHE – LABUCHE 4930M, (6 HRS)
We continue up the wide valley beneath the impressive peaks of Cholatse and Tawache on the left. We then turn right and climb more steeply towards the foot of the Khumbu Glacier.At the top of this climb there are many stone cairns, built as memorials to the many Sherpas who have died while climbing Mt Everest. The path then climbs gently along the glacier, to eventually reach the cluster of houses at Lobuche. Overnight.
Day 08: LABUCHE TREK TO GORAKPSHEP 5140M, (2 AND HALF HRS) AND TREK TO EVEREST BASE CAMP OR KALAPATTAR
Gorakshep we continue our trek along the Khumbu Glacier. We will reach our destination quiet early but you can spend rest of the days for acclimatization & preparation for the next day adventure, After Lunch we head to the Everest Base Camp which is 5344 meter, It takes 3 hours and over night at Tea house.
Day 09 : GORAKSHEP – KALAPATTAR (5500M) – GORAKSHEP 3 HRS, TREK TO KALAPATTAR 5550M AND BACK TO GORAKSHEP (5 HRS) TREK TO DZONGLA (4830) AFTER LUNCH.
Wake up early morning. The sunrise colors begin to appear on Everest, we make our way to the top of one of the finest viewpoints in the Everest region, Kala Pattar [5554m]. And trek back to Gorakshep for Breakfast. We eat our breakfast and then continue to Everest Base camp (5300m).Walk to base camp and back would requires about 5-6 hours, following the Khumbu glacier, sometimes on moraine and sometimes on the glacier itself. The walk is especially interesting for the views of the 15-meters high series of ice, a feature peculiar to Himalayan glaciers. The base camp of the highest mountain in the world is mostly inhabited by several expeditions all over the world.
As it flows southwestward, the trail runs across it and climbs the ridge ahead. From the grassy ridge ahead, as the trail runs across to southeast from where we can see soaring heights of Ama Dablam and Kangtega-Thamserku while Taboche looms prominently ahead. Pheriche village is visible down in the distance. We will also have visibility of mound in Chukpi Lhara and its memorials and the lodges of Dugla. As the ridge veers northward, the vast Chola Lake spreads below Mt. Cholatse.
DAY 10: Dzongla – ChoLa [5420m/17,611 ft] -Thangnak [4680m/15,350 ft] – 9 – 10 hrs
Early morning as we get out of lodge, we will be greeted by the mesmerizing sight of Cholatse looming over. Today is going to be one of the toughest days of our trip. The walk begins as we transverse through a spur extending westward from Dzongla. The path descends to a basin across which meanders a murmuring stream crusted with ice at places.
In about an hour, we reach the top of the basin readying for the triumph on ChoLa. As we gain height, the view back gets increasingly more captivating; the Chola Lake begins to appear and the Ama Dablam in its pyramidal incarnation presides over a range of mountains on the south as Cholatse soars on the west. Climbing the incline is not easy; it is steep, but made worse by boulders over some of which we will have to scramble. We need to be alert as rocks can be glazed by ice.
The final climb to the ChoLa can be a little tricky as the trail curves round the bergschrund. Upon reaching the top, we see prayer flags, strung across cairns, flapping in the strong wind. Scenery of majestic peaks in all directions is breathtaking. Although long, the path leading down to Thangnak can be easily made out from the pass because it is just decent but can be hazardous if rocks are glazed by ice, a bit of cautiousness is needed. We reach Thangnak, a rather more substantial hamlet with a small village. Overnight at Thangnak Tea House.
Day 11: Thangnak To Gokyo (4790M)
Stepping out of the settlement, we are greeted by fabulous mountain views. The trail brings us to the Ngozumpa glacier edge after short walk, which is longest glacier in Nepal. Reaching the other side of the glacier, we get view of the second of the Gokyo lakes on the series of six lakes. A short distance away is the third Gokyo Lake. On the edge of this lake stands the Gokyo Village where we finally give rest to our tired body. Overnight at Gokyo.(B,L,D)
Day 12: Gokyo Valley: Climb Gokyo Ri [5357 m/17,570 ft] and hike to fifth lakes: 5 – 6 hrs
Today is an acclimatization day but we know we should not stay idle. If the weather is good, we grasp the opportunity to climb Gokyo Ri today instead of next day to enjoy the scene from the best viewpoint of Everest Region. Or, as we know Gokyo is not only popular for its grand view but also for the six lakes which it hosts. Definitely we would not miss the chance to observe the fourth lake (Thonak Tsho) and fifth lake (Ngozuma Tsho). About 3 km north of Gokyo is the fourth lake with its high cliffs and peaks rising above it. The trail continues to fifth lake.
Northern part of the fifth lake provides fabulous views of Cho-Oyu Base Camp and 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 own interest and time. Back to Gokyo village. Overnight at Gokyo (B,L,D)
Day 13: Gokyo to Dole (4200): 4 – 5 hrs
The way back from Gokyo is an easy downhill walk along the Dudh Koshi River that emerges out of the Ngozumpa Glacier. Passing by the second and then the first Gokyo Lakes, we come to a small gushing stream over an iron bridge. We see the hamlet of Phangka ahead. Cholatse and Taboche peaks rear up on the right of us. The trail descends below Phangka, and across a level terrace on the slope to climb a rib on the far side of the hill side. Upon reaching the Chorten at the edge, we see great views of Thamserku , Cho Oyu, and Kangtega. We slowly walk down to sprawling village of Machhermo. Again, through the charming hamlet of Luza and Lhafarma we reach Dole. Overnight at Dole. (B,L,D)
Day 14: Dole – Namche Bazar: 4 – 5 hrs
Taking last inspection back to Cho Oyu range, we start steep descent to Phortse Tenga. Our hike today is mostly down hills. The most outstanding feature of the trail is the abundance of plant and animal vegetation including wildflowers and Rhododendrons. We might spot faunas like mountain goats, musk deers, pheasants, etc. Waterfalls are also today`s attraction. Upon reaching MongLa, we woll be greeted by a very wonderfully located lovely place perched on the spur of Mt. Khumbila. We take revised look at Taboche, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kangtega, and a distant view of Tengboche. After a bit of long distance walk, we reach an intersection where the steep path up from Sanasa meets our trail. Now, trail to Namche clings to the steep wooded slope beyond Kyangjuma, winding through several bends.
Day 15: Namche Bazaar – Phakding: 5-6 hrs
The trail descends steeply downward so we need to walk slowly 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. By today, we start to get warmed up by the light breeze. Any remaining sore throats and colds will be gone by today as we pass through this charming mountain air. Although we are travelling the same route down, we feel completely different views. We snap a mixture of open plains, rhododendron and pine forests, and in the distance snow covered peaks. We walk through the Sherpa villages’ noticing impressive faith in Buddhism and culture of prayer stones and prayers flag. Overnight at Phakding. (B,L,D)
Day 16: Phakding to Lukla: 3 to 4 Hours.
On arrival in Lukla, we stretch those sore legs and recall the experiences of the last couple of weeks. We experience the culmination of a fantastic trek on a happy note with everyone back safe and sound with smile! Overnight in Lukla (B,L,D)
Day 17: Fly back to Kathmandu
Flights to Kathmandu are usually scheduled for morning because wind can create problem to fly the aircraft in the afternoon. But sometime the flight time can be delayed due to bad weather and other reasons that are beyond our control. We fly back to Kathmandu after long mountain journey. The early morning flight drops us in Kathmandu. We can rest and relax throughout the day in our hotel. If get interested to take some gifts home from Nepal, we can visit to some nearby shops or venture out in Thamel for typical Nepalese goods. It can be assisted by guides or we can do it ourselves too. If we want to explore any other areas of Kathmandu, we have to manage time for that too! At the evening, we will be at a fantastic celebration dinner together for successful completion of our trek! Overnight in Kathmandu. (B,D)
Day 18: Farewell Friend
The journey within the mountains of Nepal comes to an end today! There is nothing to do but we just trade emails to travel companions and organize our photos. If we have more time we can do some shopping or sightseeing. At last approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight, a representative from Our Guide escorts us to the airport. On our way to home we will have plenty of time to plan our next adventure trip in the wonderful country of Nepal. (B)
Trekking Area: EBC & GOKYO LAKE TREK VIA CHOLAPASS
Trekking Days: 16
1 Pax $2370 Per Person (Including Domestic Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla to Kathmandu)
In the Above Cost It Includes: on Full Board
1. Airport Pick-up and Drop Off,
2. Licensed and trained trekking guides,
3. potters for carrying goods and supplies,
4. Meal on full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner) basis during the trek
5. 3 Nights Accommodation in the Star Hotel in Kathmandu with B & B. (Bed
& Breakfast) and Pokhara.
6. All accommodation during the trek.
7. All meals and hot beverages during the trek.
8. Transportation to and from trail head by Private Transport.
9. All necessary documents and permits for trekking (where applicable)
10. National Park/Conservation Area entry Permit, Insurance, and
equipment for the staffs.
11. Coordination of quick Rescue service (Costs covered by your Insurance Plan)
12. Trekking staffs wages etc.
14. Welcome dinner in a Nepali Cultural Dance restaurant in Kathmandu.
15. Trekking Map, T-shirt, and Trekking certificate.
16. Exclusive of Medical Kit Bag
17. All Government and local Taxes
18. International Flight ticket re-confirmation.
19. Meals will be Start when your Trek starts.
Services and Cost Does not Included in Price:
- International Airfares,
2. Travel/Trekking Insurance,
3. Excess baggage charges More than 16kg and hand bag more than 5 kg in
domestic flights.
4. Visa fees.
5. Airport Departure Taxes.
6. Drinks (Cold and Alcoholic) Rescue charge.
7. Tips for The staffs.
8. Expenses of Personnel nature and Permit and Liaison officer fee (where Applicable.
9. Meals during stay in the Kathmandu and Pokhara.
10. Domestic Ticket of Lukla, Jomsom, Pokhara etc.
11. Extra Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara.