Gokyo & Everest Base Camp Trek

Itinerary

Click to Collapse
1. Day 01 Arrival at Kathmandu

   You will be welcomed by our staff standing with your name card at the airport arrival terminal and transferred to your hotel by a private vehicle. Your hotel is in the middle of the city. You will have nothing planned for the day, so take a rest and gather the energy to walk on the trails. Else, if you have some personal gears to buy, you can go shopping in the Market in the evening. There will be a small meeting about the trek in the evening. You will spend a night in a hotel.
   Accommodation: Hotel (BB Plan) - Transportation: Private vehicle.

2. Day 02 Kathmandu and trek preparation, Permits Procedure

   After enjoying breakfast, you have the option to spend your day exploring the many famous sights around Kathmandu. The city has a unique charm in the early morning as it slowly comes to life, but still remains relatively peaceful. You can choose to have a free day or take advantage of our offer to provide a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide who can lead you to some of the most significant sites and explain their history.
   Optional day tours:
   We offer a variety of optional day tours to choose from, including the Sacred Sites of the Valley, a full-day excursion to visit Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Boudhanath, and see the world's largest spherical stupa, or explore the largest and most sacred Hindu temple in Nepal.
   For those who want to venture outside of the city, a 30-minute drive will take you to the ancient city of Bhaktapur, known for its medieval art and wood carving. You can also go hiking or mountain biking in the scenic Shivapuri National Park, located on the northern edge of the Kathmandu Valley.
   After your day's adventure, you'll return to your hotel in the early evening where you'll meet with our specialist or one of their staff members who will provide you with a detailed briefing of your upcoming trip, including what to expect and transportation logistics.
   Accommodation: Accommodation: Hotel (BB Plan) - Transportation: Private vehicle

3. Day 03 Kathmandu to Lukla (Flight) to Phakding

   Our adventure begins after a scrumptious breakfast at the hotel, as our guide arrives to take us on an exhilarating flight to Lukla. Flights to Lukla are scheduled in the morning due to the strong afternoon winds, which can make flying challenging. The flight itself is an extraordinary experience, as we soar between towering green hills before landing on a narrow airstrip at the foot of the mountains - it's bound to quicken your heartbeat! The stunning scenery along the way is truly breathtaking. After our exciting and scenic flight, we touch down at Tenzing Hillary Airport in Lukla.
   Please note that recent changes in regulations and upgrading of the domestic airport in Kathmandu may require flights to Lukla to operate out of Manthali Airport in Ramechhap District, which is a four-hour drive from Kathmandu at night. From Manthali, the flight to Lukla will depart early in the morning and take only 20 minutes.
   Upon our arrival at Tenzing Hillary Airport, we will waste no time as we immediately begin our trek after meeting with our guide and porters. As we journey on, we pass through many quaint villages, fluttering Tibetan prayer flags, and ancient monasteries while encountering friendly locals reciting Tibetan mantras, all to reach our first destination of Phakding.
   Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge (L, D) - Transportation: vehicle/Flight.

4. Day 04 Phakding to Namche Bazaar

   After enjoying a hearty breakfast at your hotel, you will embark on your exciting trek to Namche Bazaar, the first stop on your journey to Everest Base Camp. The uphill climb can be challenging, but the stunning scenery, crisp mountain air, and anticipation of reaching your destination will keep you motivated. As you trek along the northern bank of the Dudh Koshi River, you will cross several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge, while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains..
   The trail will lead you through dense forests, charming traditional villages with terraced fields, and serene yak pastures. As you reach Namche Bazaar, a vibrant Sherpa town, you can indulge in some last-minute shopping. You will find a range of shops, cafes, cybercafés, hotels, lodges, guest houses, banks, ATMs, money exchanges, and bustling local markets to cater to all your needs..
   Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge (B,L,D)

5. Day 05 Rest day and acclimatization at Namche Bazaar

   To allow your body to acclimatize to the high altitude, we have scheduled a much-needed break day in Namche Bazaar. This day will provide you with the necessary rest to prepare for the upcoming challenges of trekking to higher altitudes.
   During your stay in Namche, your experienced guide will take you to explore the local area. You will visit the Sherpa Museum, which was established by Sir Edmund Hillary as a token of gratitude for the support he received from the Sherpa community during his successful ascent of Mt. Everest. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to visit the school that was built in Khumjung village by Sir Hillary.
   To help you adjust to the high altitude, we will also take short treks to the nearby villages of Thame and Khumjung. As you hike uphill, you will have breath-taking views of Ama Dablam, Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Thamserku, Khumbila, and Kwangde. After an eventful day, you will spend the night in a comfortable guesthouse in Namche.
   Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge (B,L,D)

6. Day 06 Namche Bazaar to Dole

   Once you've acclimatized at Namche Bazaar, you'll have the option to continue on to either Gokyo or Tengboche. The path to Gokyo is characterized by rocky terrain and frequent ups and downs and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. After several hours of trekking, you'll arrive at the Mong La Pass (3957m / 12982ft), where you can take in panoramic vistas and capture some breathtaking photographs. From there, the trail leads you down through lush forests of pine and rhododendron to the riverside village of Phortse Tenga, where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of waterfalls, streams, and wildlife. Finally, once you arrive in Dole, take a well-deserved break at a cozy teahouse and recharge your batteries for the rest of your journey.
   Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge (B,L,D)

7. Day 07 Dole to Machhermo (4410m)

   After enjoying a delicious breakfast, the trek to Machhermo begins. The path ascends towards Lopharma, which can be reached in about half an hour. Once there, take a short break before continuing the journey towards Luza. The trail takes you through stunning forests and magnificent waterfalls where you can spot various local wildlife, including pheasants, mountain goats, and musk deer. Keep your eyes peeled, as there's a good chance you'll come across some of these incredible animals.
   At Luza, take the right fork that leads down to the river and into Phortse village. As you approach the village, the trail reaches a cliff overlooking Machhermo, providing you with a fantastic view of Cho-Oyu. This is where you will enter the beautiful valley of Machermo, and you will be treated to stunning views of Cholatse, Taboche, and Kajyori. Once you reach Machermo, take some time to rest and relax, ready for the next day's adventures.
   Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge (B,L,D)

8. Day 08 Macchermo to Gokyo

   The journey towards Gokyo Lake begins with a short climb and an easy walk towards the base of a rocky hill. Along the way, the sound of the glistening glacial water of the river will accompany you as you walk up the valley. While trekking upwards, you will also get to witness a few picturesque lakes en route to the final destination. Eventually, after the climb, you will reach the enchanting Gokyo Lake. Upon arrival, you can take some time to rest and rejuvenate yourself.
   Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge (B,L,D)

9. Day 09 Hike to Gokyo Ri and Trek to Thagnak

   For trekkers planning to climb Gokyo Ri, it's recommended to do so in the morning when the skies are clear for stunning views. However, some may opt for a leisurely day to acclimatize to the altitude and take a gentle walk to the ridge overlooking Ngozumpa Glacier. Alternatively, this can be done the next morning for even better views.
   A brief hike leads to the 4th Gokyo Lake, or a viewpoint above it, offering beautiful scenery. Moving forward, we trek across rocky terrain and glaciers to reach Thagnak, a village with limited teahouses. Many trekkers stay here as they prepare to cross the Chola Pass the following day.
   Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge (B,L,D)

10. Day 10 Thagnak to Cho Dzongla via Chola Pass

    Today's trek is a real test of endurance as we take on one of the longest and most challenging walks of the entire trip. To tackle the Chola Pass, we start early, around 3 am, to ensure that we have enough time to complete the climb. This pass is a crucial link between the main Everest Base Camp trail and the Gokyo region. It requires crampons in certain areas, as we'll be trekking over a glacier and the path can be slippery due to smooth ice rocks. Although the Cho La Pass itself isn't too demanding, it's a steep ascent with a glacier crossing on the east side.
    Once we reach the top of the pass, we're rewarded with breathtaking views that will take your breath away. The prayer flags fluttering in the wind add a spiritual touch to the experience. The majestic Ama Dablam stands tall among a series of mountains, while the Cholatse peaks to the west and Lobuche to the east, and Baruntse dominates the right. We'll have to navigate through some cracks before reaching Dzongla village. This charming little town provides a stunning view of Cholatse, Lobuche, Ama Dablam, and the village of Pheriche far below. It's a long day, but the panoramic views along the way make it worth the effort. Our exhausting journey concludes in Cho Dzongla village, where we can finally relax and enjoy a well-deserved dinner.
    Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge (B,L,D)

11. Day 11 Dzongla to Lobuche

    The trek from Dzongla to Lobuche is a leisurely one, with no need to walk for an extended period, and the trail is not too challenging. This means we can take our time and savor the natural beauty that surrounds us. As we make our way, the path gently ascends and descends, leading us through a grassy trail that provides stunning views of Lobuche Peak. The route eventually winds its way through a riverbed before reaching the charming village of Lobuche. This quaint hamlet is located near a stream, and watching the sunset over Nuptse from here is a truly unforgettable sight. Once we arrive at Lobuche, we can take a well-deserved break and unwind.
    Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge (B,L,D)

12. Day 12 Lobuche to Gorakshep (Afternoon hike to EBC)

    Today is the day you've been waiting for! The highlight of the trek is the journey to Everest Base Camp (5,364m), which provides the closest view of Mt. Everest for non-climbers. The trek follows the left bank of Khumbu Glacier, and includes a steep climb up to Changri Glacier followed by a short descent to reach Gorak Shep. This stretch takes about two and a half hours to complete. After taking a lunch break and dropping off our belongings, we'll embark on an excursion to Everest Base Camp (5,364m). Many hikers opt to trek up to Kalapattar to catch the stunning sunset view of Mt. Everest instead of hiking to base camp on the same day. Those who choose this option can explore Everest Base Camp the next day before trekking back to Pheriche.
    Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge (B,L,D)

13. Day 13 Gorakshep to Pheriche (Morning Hike to Kala Patthar)

    If we didn't make it to Kalapatthar yesterday, but if that's the case, we'll tackle it this morning. Weather permitting, of course. The trek to Kalapatthar begins early in the morning and takes about 3-4 hours to complete. At the top of this narrow hill, you'll find the most spectacular views of Everest that Nepal has to offer. Keep in mind, this is the highest altitude you can reach in Nepal without a climbing permit. We'll return to Gorakshep for breakfast before heading to Pheriche. The hike to Pheriche takes around 4 hours and once there, you can take in the sights of this small settlement. Be sure to check out the Himalayan Rescue Association clinic, which offers services to trekkers and climbers experiencing altitude sickness or other altitude-related health issues. After dinner, you can retire to your room and rest up.
    Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge (B,L,D)

14. Day 14 Pheriche to Namche Bazaar

    Today marks the end of your unforgettable trekking journey as we head back to the lively Sherpa Town of Namche. Though the trail descends considerably today, there are still some uphill sections to tackle. We make our way down gradually, passing through charming communities like Orsho, Somare, Pangboche, and Tengboche, all while soaking in the breathtaking mountain views that still surround us.
    Once we arrive at Namche, you can enjoy a refreshing hot shower and relax for the rest of the day. If you'd like, your guide can take you to some local cafes where you can indulge in freshly baked cookies or your favourite coffee. This is also the perfect opportunity to celebrate your successful trek to Everest. With Wi-Fi service available, you can touch base with loved ones back home and even upload a few photos of your trip.
    Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge (B,L,D)

15. Day 15 Namche to Lukla

    Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on the final leg of your trek. The journey takes you through the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge, a thrilling experience in itself. As you continue trekking, you will pass through several charming local villages, soaking in the sights and sounds of the Khumbu region. Finally, you will arrive at Lukla, where you will spend your last evening at a Tea House. It's a time to celebrate your achievement with your trekking crew, who have been your companions and supporters throughout your journey. As you reflect on your experiences and the challenges you've overcome, you may experience mixed emotions, but you can take pride in the fact that you have accomplished something truly remarkable.
    Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge (B,L,D)

16. Day 16 Lukla to Kathmandu (Flight)

    As you start your day with breakfast, you prepare to bid adieu to the breathtaking views of Mount Everest and the Khumbu Region. Depending on the operational airport and weather conditions, we will either return to Kathmandu for brunch or in the early afternoon. The flight from Lukla will offer you another sight of the highest mountains, and you can recognize most of them through your window.
    After arriving in Kathmandu, we will take you to your respective hotels. You can spend the rest of the day as your liking.
    Note: Due to ongoing upgrades at Kathmandu Airport, flights to and from Lukla are currently departing and arriving from Ramechhap. It takes approximately 4 to 6 hours to drive back to Kathmandu from Ramechhap, depending on traffic conditions..
    Accommodation: Hotel (BB Plan) , Transportation: Flights/Private vehicle.

17. Day 17 Final departure

    Breakfast at the hotel. Free & easy until the representative of our team will transfer you to the airport and depart to own country.
    Transportation: Private vehicle.
    Treks End Here.