Overview

Mt. Everest Gokyo Trek starts in Lukla following Namche Bazaar like nearly all treks in Everest Region. After that the tour leads along five beautiful turquoise lakes in the Gokyo valley. The third lake you will see is the Gokyo Lake. The Gokyo village is very close and you will enjoy a splendid view onto the Gokyo Lake from your hotel. Also you can stay there one more night to watch an amazing sunrise from Gokyo Ri (5360m) with an excellent panorama of Mount Everest or you can make an optional trip to the fifth lake.

During the whole trek you will walk along one of the biggest glaciers, the ngozumba glacier. You will see monkeys, leopards, bears and with a little luck snow leopards. It is an amazing landscape through the Sagarmatha National Park with many pine forests.

Program Highlights

After reaching Gokyo you have different options how to move on. In general, it just depends on the difficulty level and the days you want to spend. First you just can go back the same route through Gokyo valley (9-10 Days). Second you can walk back through Thame Valley (12 Days). This route is closer to Tibet and you will see yaks. It is also part of the Three Passes Trail. Third is a more difficult and longer option: you will explore the Cho La pass, which is quite difficult to walk, following Lobuche to Mount Everest Base Camp and back to Lukla (17-18 Days). In that case you can visit Kala Patthar from Lobuche, the Everest view range view point range.

Trip Highlights

In summary, Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes will be a lifetime experience with the enthralling sights of Mount Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Nuptse, Amadablam, Pumori, and Tengboche Monastery – the largest monastery in the Khumbu region.

Inclusion

Cost Includes: 
  • Pickup / Drop international airport and Domestic airport by private tourist vehicle. Car, van or bus. (Depends on size of group)
  • Flight ticket to Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu. And Domestic airport tax.
  • Everest National Park fee.
  • TIMS (Trekking information management system) Fee.
  • Lodge trek with all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and accommodation in tea house lodge.
  • Service of English speaking trekking guide. And Porters. We provide 1 porter for 2 Persons. (Maximum weight carried by one porter is total 25 Kg).
  • Allowance, all food, accommodation, flight ticket Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu. And domestic Airport tax of guide.
  • Allowance, all food, and accommodation of Porters.
  • Insurance of guide and porters.
  • All applicable government taxes and service charge.

Exclusion

Cost Excludes: 
  • Any accommodation, meals and other services in Kathmandu
  • Personal Travel Insurance (Compulsory).
  • Bottle Drinks (Mineral waters, any cold drinks and alcoholic drinks) during your trek.
  • Expenses of personal nature such as tips for guide, porter and driver, laundry, bar bill, Telephone calls etc.
  • Nepal Visa fee.
  • Any other cost not mention above in cost includes.

Day 1Fly to Lukla, trek to Phakding (2,651m/8,700ft)

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During the 40-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (9,186ft), we enjoy one of the most beautiful air routes in the world culminating on a hillside surrounded by high mountainous peaks. When arriving in 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. Then from Cheplung, we gradually descend until we reach Phakding and spend the night.

Day 2Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,438m/11,280 ft): 5 – 6 hours

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

Day 3Acclimatization Day – Namche Bazaar: (3,440m/11,284ft)

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There are plenty of things to do around Namche Bazaar, and we can spend a day here acclimatising. Namche Bazaar is the main centre of the Khumbu region and has a government offices, ATMs, Internet cafes, shops, restaurants, and a colourful market. Our guides can take us to explore the real charm of Namche Bazaar. 

Especially 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. When exploring Namche Bazar, we observe traditional Sherpa life, Khumjung Hillary School, and enjoy flora and fauna found in such altitude. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

Day 4Namche Bazaar to Phortse Thanga (3,680m/12,073ft): 5 – 6 hours

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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. Also there is a little stream on the ridge top at 3973 m which descends from Mt. Khumbila (5761 m). Furthermore 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.

Day 5Phortse Thanga to Machhermo (4,470m/ 14,663ft): 4 – 5 hour

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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.

Day 6Machhermo to Gokyo (4,800 m/15,744 ft): 4 – 5 hours

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Today we begin 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 the chance to observe lama footprints on stones.

Day 7Gokyo Valley: Acclimatization Day to Gokyo Ri 3 hrs

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We can spend this day taking a rest in the Gokyo Valley or hike to the 5th lake. If the weather is good, another option could be to climb Gokyo Ri, a popular viewpoint to enjoy stunning views of the mountain vista.

We walk 3 km north of Gokyo to reach the fourth lake, also called Thonak Tsho. When arriving we take pleasure in the lake’s serene beauty and continue to the 5th lake, also called Ngozumba Tsho. If we want to, we can climb a hill, also called the Scoundrel’s Viewpoint, which is located at the edge of the 5thlake. From here we get astounding views of Cho-Oyu, Gyachung Kang, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makulu mountains. We can also see Cho Oyu base camp. In fact, Cho Oyu and Gyachung Kang seem just a stone’s throw away. Another treat for us is the view of the biggest glacier of the world, the Ngozumba Glacier. We trek back to Gokyo and spend the night.

Day 8Gokyo to Thagnak (4750 m/15,580 ft): 4 – 5 hours

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If we did not climb the Gokyo Ri the previous day, we can do that today. Climbing to the top of Gokyo Ri is demanding as it is steep and takes about 3 to 4 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. Correspondingly we are surrounded by panoramic mountains like Kusum Kanguru, Thamserku, Kangtega, Taboche, Cholatse, Makalu, Lhotse, Nuptse, Everest, Changtse, and Pumori. 

The sight of sun rays 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.

Day 9Thagnak to Dzongla (4,830 m./15,939 ft) Via Cho La Pass (5,366 m./17,711 ft.)

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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. In fact, 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 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.

Day 10Dzongla to Lobuche (4940 m/16,207 ft): 4 hours

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This will be a very short trek so we have a lot of 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.

Day 11Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,170 m/16,961ft), visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m/17,594 ft) and back to Gorak Shep: 6 – 7 hours

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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). To clarify 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.

Day 12Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar (5,545m/18,192ft) to Pheriche (4,288m/14,070ft)

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We prepare for an early morning departure, amid pre-dawn darkness and cold temperatures (-10 to -14 C). In addition, 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 view and up-close and formidable views of Mt. Everest. We take pictures, enjoy the magnificent mountain panorama, and then return back to Pherice for a good night’s rest. Overnight in Pherich.

Day 13Pheriche to Namche Bazaar: 6 – 7 hours

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We trek down through the hillside blanketed by rhododendron and juniper trees. As a result, after crossing the prayer-flag festooned bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, our trail follows the Dudh Koshi gorge descending rapidly through pine forests. In the forest, we may come across colorful pheasants and mountain goats. The path eventually reaches Sansa from where we can enjoy views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Nuptse mountains. We also pass winding trails then through a forest before reaching Namche Bazaar. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

Day 14Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft): 6 – 7 hours

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The trail descends steeply downward so we need to walk cautiously as our shaky legs continuously battle the rocky terrain. When 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.

Day 15Fly to Kathmandu

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We catch an early morning flight to Kathmandu after our long mountain journey. When reaching Kathmandu, we can take a rest or do some souvenir shopping. Also if we want to explore any other areas of Kathmandu, we may do that today. Our guides can help you with both souvenir shopping or sightseeing. Besides there will be a farewell dinner in the evening to celebrate the successful completion of our journey. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Visa
You can get a visa in Kathmandu airport upon your arrival at USD 25 (or equivalent in other major currencies) for a 15 days visa, USD 40$ for a 30 days visa and USD 100$ for a 90 days Multiple visa, and you can also extend it later on if you wish. They have newly installed technology (visa machine) which makes it no longer necessary to have a passport photo.

Booking your International flight
Besides trekking packages and tour operation, we arrange international air tickets to the major airports of all over the world. Skypark Travel and Tours is the one-stop travel solution company; we offer all travel related product at the best possible rates with excellent services. 

Airport Condition: -
Please keep this thing in your mind that there are some airport touts and scam artists who take advantage of tourists. They might offer to carry your luggage and they want a large amount of money. Sometimes they intimidate our drivers and even take away their signs. Anyway...if you want someone to help you with your luggage you can give them NOT MORE THAN 1 - 2 DOLLARS. This is a small hassle that tourists sometimes face upon arrival at the airport. Doesn't stress about this but just be aware not to give more than a few dollars for their luggage handling if you choose to take someone's services. Nepalese in general are very kind and hospitable people.

Which currencies are accepted in Nepal?
Some major currencies (USD, AUD and EURO) are accepted for both visa and in general. There are plenty of ATM's in both Kathmandu and Namche and credit cards are accepted in limited shops and many restaurants. Please note that only Nepali rupees are accepted on the trek.

When and where should you arrive?
You will arrive at Tribhuwan International airport in Kathmandu on the trip starting day or earlier. You will be received outside the Kathmandu international airport terminal gate by our representatives holding a Himalayan Social Journey signboard and he will escorts you to the Hotel.