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Bus, Airlines
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3 Stars Accommodation in City & Guest House During Trek
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5364m Everest Base Camp
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Kathmandu
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Feb, Mar, Apr & May
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Trekking
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All meals during the trek
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English, Spanish, French, Chinese
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Easy to Moderate
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2-15
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12
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65
Overview
The Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Trek is a 19-day adventure through the stunning landscapes of the Everest region in the Himalayas. This classic trek offers majestic vistas, a rich cultural experience, and the chance to witness the world’s highest freshwater lake system, Gokyo Lake. With visits to ancient monasteries, panoramic views from Gokyo Ri peak, and a glimpse of Mount Everest, this trek showcases the beauty and traditions of the Khumbu region. Suitable for all age groups with a minimum level of fitness, this trek is an incredible opportunity to explore the foothills of the Himalayas and create lifelong memories.
Highlights
- Majestic vistas of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest.
- Explore the stunning Gokyo Lake, the world's highest freshwater lake system.
- Reach Everest Base Camp and stand at the foot of the world's highest peak.
- Immerse yourself in the rich culture and ancient monasteries of the region.
- Begin the adventure with a scenic flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will assist with accommodation arrangements. Take some rest before exploring Kathmandu's natural and cultural landmarks, including ancient temples and stupas. Attend a trek briefing in the afternoon and enjoy a welcome dinner with your team and guide.
Maximum Altitude: 1400m
Meals: Welcome dinner
Accommodation: 3* Accommodation in Twin sharing basis
Take an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, enjoying scenic views of settlements, hills, and snow-capped Himalayas. After landing in Lukla, rest briefly before heading to the village of Phakding. Follow the trail along the Dudh Koshi River, passing through beautiful settlements like Chauri Kharka and Ghat. Reach Phakding, a small Sherpa town nestled at 2,610 meters in the lush Dudh Koshi Valley.
Maximum Altitude: 2652m
Duration: 45 minutes flight and 4-5 hours trek
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Today, you'll trek to Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital and a vibrant settlement in the Khumbu region. Follow the Dudh Koshi River, passing through picturesque woodlands with rhododendron and crossing the river at Benkar.
Along the way, enjoy views of Kusum Kanguru and Thamserku peaks. After lunch in Monjo, continue ascending, crossing suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge, and entering Sagarmatha National Park. Trek through Jorsale and ascend towards Namche Bazaar, catching glimpses of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Taweche.
Upon arrival, settle into your tea house and explore the bustling town with its pubs, restaurants, and attractions.
Maximum Altitude: 3446m
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Today is your acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar, a crucial step as you ascend to higher altitudes. As your body adjusts to the thinner air, take advantage of the settlement's numerous vantage points for acclimatization hikes.
At dawn and dusk, don't miss the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Himalayas. As the sun's rays grace the snow-covered peaks of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kongde, and Lhotse, prepare to be captivated by their breathtaking beauty.
To delve deeper into the local culture, make sure to visit the Sherpa Culture Museum. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Sherpa people as you discover their customs, traditions, and way of life.
In the afternoon, indulge in the culinary delights that Namche Bazaar has to offer. Explore a variety of exceptional bakeries, cafés, restaurants, and shops that are not commonly found along most trekking trails in the country.
Treat yourself to unique flavors and experiences that will make your time in Namche truly memorable.
Maximum Altitude: 3446m
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
After breakfast, continue along the ascending trail towards Syangboche and then proceed to Khumjung, the largest village in the area. Enjoy lunch and then resume your trek. Along this section, you'll witness views of Khumbilya, a sacred peak at 5761 meters.
The trail meanders through birch and cider forests, leading to a tree-less area with high slopes and ridge sections. Explore stupas on the ridge with stunning mountain views and picturesque villages. A short walk will bring you to the stone-walled settlement of Mongla.
Maximum Altitude: 3970m
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Begin your early morning trek towards Dole, descending along the Dudh Koshi River to Phortse Bridge. Traverse a steep, inclined trail above the valley, enjoying stunning views of Kantega, Thamserku, and Ama Dablam peaks.
Catch your first glimpse of Cho Oyo at 8153 meters. Trek through barren alpine terrain, witnessing waterfalls and yak herding settlements of Tongba (4015m) and Gyele (4050m).
Cross the high alpine pastureland to reach Dole. In the evening, hike to a high ridge for a mesmerizing sunset view of Cho Oyo, Gyachung Kang, Taweche, and Cholatse.
Maximum Altitude: 4038m
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Today's trek is short and relatively easy, but it's important to take it slow due to the altitude. Depart from Dole and ascend along the Dudh Koshi Valley.
Traverse the arid alpine landscape with patches of scrub juniper and shrubs, enjoying views of the Himalayan range along the way. Arrive at the village of Luza at 4360 meters and continue to the settlement of Machhermo.
Take a brief rest and then explore the base of Kyajo Ri and Machhermo Peak before returning to Machhermo.
Maximum Altitude: 4465m
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
After breakfast, begin your early morning trek. Take a steep trail from Machhermo Valley, hiking across cliffs and pasture lands of the Dudh Koshi Valley.
The valley widens as you progress, passing through Pangka settlement and Ngozumpa Glacier moraines, the source of Dudh Koshi River.
Traverse the western part of the glacier and reach the picturesque Longpongav Lake at 4690 meters. Continue on the trail to the third lake of Gokyo at 4750 meters, where a settlement is perched by the turquoise blue lake.
Take a brief rest, then explore the area and climb a ridge behind Gokyo for breathtaking views of Ngozumpa Glacier and the lakes nestled amidst the mountains.
Maximum Altitude: 4720m
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Wake up early and embark on a trek to Gokyo Peak, a renowned vantage point offering panoramic views of the Khumbu region. Take it slow due to the altitude.
From the summit, behold majestic views of Everest, Cho-Oyo, Lhotse, Makalu, Gyachung Kang, Cholatse, Taweche, Kangchung, Gokyo lakes, and the Ngozumpa Glacier.
After a short stay, descend to Gokyo and then continue towards Machhermo. Explore the area upon reaching Machhermo.
Maximum Altitude: 4465m
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Begin early and trek mostly downhill towards Dole, passing through beautiful woodlands until reaching Phortse Bridge. Cross the bridge over Dudh Koshi River and ascend to Phortse village.
Once there, drop off your heavy backpacks and explore the area. Visit settlements and ancient monasteries to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions. In the evening, relax at your tea house and enjoy the mesmerizing sunset views.
Maximum Altitude: 3840m
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Descend on a steep trail with sheer cliffs towards Imja Khola, keeping an eye out for wildlife like Musk deers and Himalayan Thar.
Cross the river and ascend towards Pangboche, enjoying breathtaking views of Ama Dablam peak. Visit monasteries and explore the intriguing artifacts, including what is believed to be the hand and scalp of a yeti.
After lunch, continue on the high trail above Imja Khola, crossing the river and glacial moraines until reaching Dingboche.
The village is surrounded by stone walls and offers spectacular views. Witness the sunset transforming the snowy peaks of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Island Peak into a mesmerizing display of colors.
Maximum Altitude: 4360m
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Commence today's trek by following a small ridge above the Pheriche valley. At the summit, visit a colorful Stupa adorned with flags and admire the panoramic views of the landscape, including Lobuje Peak and the snowfields of Cho La. Descend briefly before traversing across a flat surface.
Continue along the trail, crossing Khumbu Khola at Dughla and walking alongside the base of Khumbu Glacier moraines. Ascend the steep and rocky trail to reach the top of the moraines. Along the way, encounter stone memorials dedicated to climbers who lost their lives on nearby peaks over the past decades.
Enjoy views of Pumori, Lingtren, Khumbutse, and across the Tibetan border, Changtse. Follow a stream until you reach Lobuje.
Maximum Altitude: 4930m
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Embark on a journey towards Everest Base Camp, following the valley tracks parallel to Khumbu Glacier and traversing the Changri Nup Glacier moraines. Navigate a rocky trail with small ascents and descents, marked by cairns, until you reach the unique glacial sands of Gorak Shep (5160m) after approximately three hours.
Take a quick break, prepare accordingly, and proceed towards Everest Base Camp. At the base camp, marvel at the sight of majestic snowcapped mountains, glaciers, lakes, caves, and the renowned Everest Ice Fall (please note that Mount Everest itself is not visible from the base camp).
After a short stay, return to Gorak Shep.
Maximum Altitude: 5364m
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Start your day early by ascending to the renowned vantage point of the Khumbu region, Kala Patthar, standing at 5545 meters. Though the climb is non-technical, be cautious of the altitude. From the summit, soak in the breathtaking views of Everest, Pumori, Nuptse, Changtse, Ama Dablam, Taweche, Kantega, Lhotse, and even Everest Base Camp nestled near the Khumbu Ice Fall. After a short stay at the summit, retrace your steps back to Gorak Shep.
Upon reaching Gorak Shep, enjoy a quick breakfast before continuing your descent towards Pheriche. Traverse a downhill path, passing through Lobuche and Thukla where you can stop for lunch. Follow the banks of Khumbu Khola, cross the river, and descend towards Cholatse, eventually arriving at Pheriche.
Maximum Altitude: 4270m
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Begin your trek by crossing the lively rapids of Khumbu Khola and ascending a steep ridge offering stunning views of Imja Valley, Mt. Ama Dablam, and Kantega. As you continue on the trail, descend to the quaint settlements of Orsho and Shomare before reaching Lower Pangboche. Cross the Imja Khola River and ascend once again towards Thyangboche.
Thyangboche is home to an ancient monastery, founded in the 17th century by Lama Sange Dorjee. Despite facing destruction from an earthquake in 1933 and a fire in 1989, the present monastery was completed in 1992. Take the time to explore the monastery, engage in friendly conversations with the monks, and gain insights into the local culture and way of life.
After your exploration, descend through woodlands adorned with juniper, rhododendron, and fir trees until you reach Phunkitenga. Cross the Dudh Koshi River and ascend towards Trashinga, following the high route above the valley via Shanasa, ultimately arriving at the lively settlement of Namche Bazaar.
Maximum Altitude: 3364m
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
After enjoying the mesmerizing sunrise and a hearty breakfast, continue your trek on a descending path, crossing a high suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River.
Traverse through lush woodlands adorned with pines, rhododendrons, and cider trees as you make your way towards Jorsale and then to the village of Monjo, where you'll take a lunch break.
Afterward, continue your pleasant walk through the verdant forest until you reach the charming settlement of Phakding.
Maximum Altitude: 2652m
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
After breakfast head towards Lukla, today is your last day of the trek so enjoy the views of the landscapes and the fresh air of the mountains. Upon reaching Lukla head towards your accommodation and rest. Later in the afternoon head out to explore the region and celebrate the success of your trek and the last night in the mountains.
Maximum Altitude: 2800m
Duration: 6-7 hour
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
After breakfast, make your way to the Lukla airstrip and board an early flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, proceed to your accommodation. If desired, we can arrange a guided tour of the city, or you can explore at your own pace. In the evening, join us for a farewell dinner to celebrate the successful completion of your trek with your fellow team members and our team representatives.
Maximum Altitude: 1400m
Duration: 45 minutes flight
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Our representative will drop you off at the airport, and bid farewell to your newfound friends as well as Nepal.
Note: All of the above-mentioned trekking hours and distances are estimations and should only be used as a general guideline.
Cost
Cost Includes
- All airport/hotel pick up and drop in private car/van
- 2 Nights Hotel in Kathmandu including breakfast, Twin sharing 3*
- 16 Nights stay in Tea House during the trek. It means, sharing the Bathroom.
- An experienced English-speaking Trekking Guide (any other language) and a Porter during the trek.
- Salary, food, insurance, and lodging cost for guide and porter ( 2 Trekkers-1 Porter )
- During the Trek, meals are provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Tea/Coffee each time only.
- Welcome and Farewell Meals and Breakfasts while in Kathmandu.
- National Park Permit and TIMS for Everest.
- Airfare from Kathmandu to Lukla and return flight to Kathmandu and domestic flight departure taxes.
- Down Jacket and Sleeping Bag that needs to be returned to the office after trek completion.
- Everest Dreams Kitbag and T- shirt for you
- Ncell Sim Card (Nepalese Sim Card including 20 GB data pack) - Only 1 for a group.
Cost Excludes
- Nepal entry visa fees.
- International airfare and departure tax.
- Bar bills, laundry, and other expenses of personal nature.
- Travel insurance including evacuation.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu except welcome and farewell.
- Tips for local staff, guides, and porters.
- Desserts, Hot Shower, Hot Water, Wi-Fi, Mineral Water.
FAQs
Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Trek take you across the classic trekking route of Nepal and the planet. The Everest region is a dream destination for travelers, trekkers, mountain, and nature lovers. This trek takes you to various landscapes and horizons, from the lush deep wilderness of central Nepal, high alpine grounds, pasture lands, following river networks, glaciers and icefalls, lakes, and mountains. To the foothills of the highest mountains on the planet. Make your dream into reality and head on this journey with the Alpine Club of Himalaya.
The Everest Region Trek is renowned for its wide range of facilities, offering options from basic to luxury accommodations.
During your trek, you will have the opportunity to indulge in a variety of cuisines. From Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, to Western and continental meals, the region offers a diverse culinary experience. Whether you choose to dine in small tea houses or luxurious hotels, you can find options that suit your budget. Don’t miss the chance to savor traditional dishes and popular snacks that are famous in the region.
When it comes to drinking water, natural water sources are available along the trail. However, it is important to note that the water is untreated, so it is not advisable to drink it directly. Instead, you can refill your bottles with boiled water or use cold-filtered water provided by the teahouses. For added safety, you may consider carrying water purification tablets, chlorine drops, or utilizing SODIS (sunlight-assisted) filtration methods. This not only provides extra assurance but also helps save money and reduce plastic waste.
Throughout the Everest Region trek, you will find a range of accommodations including trekking lodges, teahouses, and even hotels to cater to your preferences and budget. These accommodations offer a variety of options, from basic and well-maintained lodges to reasonably luxurious 5-star establishments with additional amenities.
Teahouses along the trail vary in quality and price, offering different levels of comfort and services. The rooms in teahouses are typically shared, with beds, pillows, sheets, and extra blankets provided due to the cold temperatures at night. Additionally, most teahouses offer hot shower facilities for trekkers to freshen up after a long day of hiking.
For those who prefer camping, there are designated campsites available along the trekking route. This option allows trekkers to enjoy a more immersive outdoor experience surrounded by the natural beauty of the Everest region.
The ideal seasons for Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake trek are spring (March to May) and fall (mid-September to November) seasons. During these seasons, the weather is dry and clear, making it perfect for trekking and basking in pristine mountain landscapes. The days are pleasant, while the evenings are cool.
However, because these are peak seasons, the trails get crowded and busy. The foothills are enchanting with wildflowers, especially rhododendron blossoms, in the spring. The Base Camp is transformed into a tented city during the climbing season, with climbers and Sherpa guides. Trekking to Everest Base Camp is extremely popular in the autumn, you may experience extremely clear sights during this season due to the ending of the heavy monsoon season, which clears the atmosphere.
If you plan your journey around October, you will be able to attend Mani Rimdu, the Everest Region’s most significant festival, people from Tengboche, Chiwong, and Thame monasteries all participate in this celebration.
Free Cancellation, Everest Basecamp & Gokyo LakeTrek
If you cancel your Trek up to 7 days before departure you forfeit your deposit only.
If you cancel your tour within 7 days from the start of your experience you forfeit 100% of your tour cost.
You can reschedule the starting time of your experience up to 15 days prior to the original starting time for free. If you want to reschedule your starting time within 15 days prior to departure extra fees might apply.
No refunds are made if you voluntarily leave a trip for any reason after the trip starts.
No refunds will be made for accommodation, transport, sightseeing, meals, or any services not used.
Please note that weather conditions at high altitudes can be unpredictable, leading to changes in planned itineraries. Flights between Kathmandu and Lukla are particularly susceptible to delays, which may impact the schedule for all departures in the Everest region. In the event of adverse weather, we have outlined the following contingency plans:
Day 1: If the flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is canceled, we will arrange an additional night’s stay at your hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 2: In the event of a flight cancellation but availability of helicopters permitted to fly to Lukla, we will organize chartered helicopters for transportation. Travelers will need to use their emergency fund to cover the cost, which can vary depending on the group size and may be up to US$500. The helicopter company may charge different amounts to individual travelers. If we reach Lukla on Day 3 by either fixed-wing aircraft or helicopter, we will follow the original itinerary to Everest Base Camp, but the descent will be shortened by one day to accommodate the return flight from Lukla on Day 14.
Day 4: If neither flights nor helicopters are feasible on the morning of Day 3, we will take an alternative route. We will travel by road to Phaplu, approximately a 9-hour drive by private vehicle, and then trek to Tengboche on the Everest Base Camp route via Lukla. While Gokyo Lakes cannot be included in this altered itinerary, there will still be sufficient time to safely reach Everest Base Camp.
We strongly recommend keeping a few extra days in Kathmandu at the end of your trip to account for potential delays in return flights from Lukla due to weather conditions.
These plans have been designed to ensure the safety and success of your journey in the face of unexpected weather challenges.
Bad weather and cloudy conditions can occur at any time in high altitudes, which may cancel your extra days at trek. In this case, we will return to Kathmandu by late morning on day 15 and the trip will end with an arrival transfer back to our hotel.
Please note that in peak travel times domestic flights to/from Kathmandu may arrive/depart from Ramechhap (also known as Manthali) Airport. The airport is located 130km (approx. 4-5 hours’ drive) from Kathmandu.
