Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes
Trip Facts
Overview
The Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes is one of the most spectacular trekking adventures in the Nepal Himalayas. Unlike the classic Everest Base Camp route, this journey combines the legendary Everest Base Camp with the tranquil turquoise Gokyo Lakes, the panoramic summit of Gokyo Ri, and the thrilling crossing of Cho La Pass. It offers trekkers a more diverse and less crowded experience while showcasing some of the finest mountain scenery on Earth.
This unforgettable journey begins with a scenic mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lukla before following the famous Everest trail through Sherpa villages, rhododendron forests, suspension bridges, and Buddhist monasteries. After reaching Namche Bazaar, the route diverges into the peaceful Gokyo Valley, where trekkers explore pristine glacial lakes and climb Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), one of the best viewpoints in the Himalayas.
From Gokyo, the adventure continues across the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420 m), connecting the Gokyo Valley with the Khumbu Valley. The trail then joins the classic Everest route, leading to Lobuche, Gorak Shep, Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), and the famous sunrise viewpoint of Kala Patthar (5,644 m), where trekkers enjoy breathtaking close-up views of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan giants.
Throughout the trek, you'll witness magnificent peaks including Mount Everest (8,848.86 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Nuptse (7,861 m), Cho Oyu (8,188 m), Ama Dablam (6,812 m), Pumori (7,161 m), Thamserku (6,608 m), Kangtega (6,782 m), Makalu (8,485 m) and many other snow-covered summits.
This trek is ideal for experienced hikers seeking a more rewarding Everest adventure with fewer crowds, dramatic landscapes, beautiful alpine lakes, rich Sherpa culture, and incredible panoramic viewpoints.
Trip Highlights :
- Complete the ultimate Everest circuit, combining the iconic Everest Base Camp Trek with the stunning Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass.
- Summit two of the Everest region's best viewpoints—Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) and Kala Patthar (5,644 m)—for breathtaking sunrise and panoramic Himalayan views.
- Explore the sacred turquoise Gokyo Lakes, one of the world's highest freshwater lake systems, nestled beneath towering snow-capped peaks.
- Cross the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420 m), an exhilarating high-altitude adventure linking the peaceful Gokyo Valley with the classic Everest Base Camp trail.
- Stand at the foot of the world's highest mountain as you reach Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and experience the legendary Khumbu Glacier up close.
- Immerse yourself in authentic Sherpa culture, visiting traditional mountain villages, ancient Buddhist monasteries, colorful prayer flags, and the vibrant town of Namche Bazaar.
- Trek through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while enjoying spectacular views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, Makalu, and other Himalayan giants.
- This trek is also known as Gokyo Chola pass EBC trek
Itinerary
Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. During the drive, you'll get your first glimpse of the vibrant streets, colorful temples, and bustling atmosphere of Kathmandu.
In the evening, you'll attend a pre-trek briefing where your guide will explain the itinerary, equipment checklist, weather conditions, and safety procedures. This is also an excellent opportunity to ask questions before beginning your Himalayan adventure.
- Altitude: 1400
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals: Lunch/Dinner
An early morning scenic flight takes you to Lukla, often considered one of the world's most exciting mountain airports. During the flight, enjoy magnificent aerial views of the Himalayan range before landing in the heart of the Khumbu region.
After meeting the trekking crew, the journey begins with an easy walk through traditional Sherpa villages, stone mani walls, prayer wheels, and suspension bridges. Following the Dudh Koshi River, you'll arrive at the peaceful village of Phakding, where you'll spend your first night in the mountains.
- Altitude: 2610
- Accommodation: Mountain Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch /Dinner
Today's trail follows the Dudh Koshi River through beautiful pine forests while crossing several iconic suspension bridges decorated with colorful prayer flags. Along the way, you'll enter Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unique mountain ecosystem.
The final ascent to Namche Bazaar is challenging but rewarding. If the weather is clear, you'll catch your first distant view of Mount Everest before reaching the bustling Sherpa town that serves as the commercial center of the Khumbu region.
- Altitude: 3440
- Accommodation: Mountain lodge
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Proper acclimatization is essential for a safe and enjoyable trek. Rather than resting completely, you'll take a short hike to higher elevations before returning to Namche, following the principle of "climb high, sleep low."
Many trekkers visit the Everest View Hotel, one of the highest luxury hotels in the world, where stunning views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Thamserku await. The afternoon can be spent exploring local bakeries, museums, monasteries, and Sherpa markets.
- Altitude: 3440
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Leaving the main Everest trail behind, today's route enters the quieter Gokyo Valley. The trail traverses hillsides with spectacular views of Ama Dablam while passing yak grazing areas and small Sherpa settlements.
As you gain altitude, forests gradually give way to alpine shrubs and rocky landscapes. The peaceful village of Dole provides a wonderful overnight stop surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks.
- Altitude: 4038
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Today's walk is shorter but involves steady altitude gain. The trail offers increasingly dramatic views of Cho Oyu, one of the world's highest mountains, while passing through open alpine valleys and grazing pastures.
Machhermo is famous for its spectacular scenery and rich mountaineering history. The village also hosts an altitude information center where trekkers learn about mountain safety and the prevention of altitude sickness.
- Altitude: 4470
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Today's journey leads past several beautiful glacial lakes whose crystal-clear turquoise waters contrast beautifully with the surrounding snow-covered mountains. These sacred lakes are among the most photographed natural wonders in Nepal.
Upon reaching Gokyo village beside the third lake, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of Cho Oyu reflected in the calm water. The peaceful atmosphere makes Gokyo one of the highlights of the entire trek.
- Altitude: 4750
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals: B/L/D
Today is reserved for altitude acclimatization while exploring the stunning surroundings. You may walk around the nearby lakes, visit higher viewpoints, or simply enjoy the serene alpine environment.
Resting at this elevation helps your body adapt before crossing Cho La Pass. The surrounding glaciers, towering peaks, and peaceful landscape create one of the most memorable days of the expedition.
- Altitude: 4750
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals: B/L/D
Before sunrise, you'll climb Gokyo Ri, one of Nepal's finest panoramic viewpoints. From the summit, enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and countless Himalayan peaks.
After descending to Gokyo, the trail crosses the Ngozumpa Glacier—the largest glacier in Nepal—before reaching the small settlement of Thagnak, located at the base of Cho La Pass.
- Altitude: 5357
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals: B/L/D
This is one of the most adventurous and rewarding days of the trek. The ascent to Cho La Pass is steep and rocky, with occasional snow depending on the season, requiring careful footing and steady pacing.
Upon reaching the summit, you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of surrounding glaciers and snow-capped peaks before descending carefully into the Khumbu Valley and arriving at Dzongla.
- Altitude: 5420
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals: B/L/D
The trail gradually descends before joining the classic Everest Base Camp route. Along the way, magnificent views of Nuptse, Lobuche Peak, and Pumori dominate the skyline.
After reaching Lobuche, you'll notice the excitement among trekkers preparing for their Everest Base Camp adventure. A relaxing evening allows you to conserve energy for the next day's highlight.
- Altitude: 4940
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals: B/L/D
Today's journey follows rocky glacial terrain toward the legendary Everest Base Camp. Along the trail, you'll walk beside the Khumbu Glacier while surrounded by some of the highest mountains on Earth.
Standing at Everest Base Camp is an unforgettable achievement. After celebrating this milestone and taking photographs, you'll return to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay beneath towering Himalayan giants.
- Altitude: 5364
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals: B/L/D
An early morning climb to Kala Patthar rewards trekkers with the finest close-up sunrise view of Mount Everest. The golden light illuminating Everest, Nuptse, and Pumori creates one of the most iconic scenes in the Himalayas.
Following the unforgettable sunrise, you'll descend through Gorak Shep and Lobuche before continuing to the peaceful village of Pheriche for a well-earned night's rest.
- Altitude: 4371
- Accommodation: Lodge
- Meals: B/L/D
Descending through Pangboche and Tengboche, you'll revisit beautiful forests, monasteries, and traditional Sherpa villages while enjoying the increasing oxygen levels at lower elevations.
After crossing several suspension bridges, you'll return to the lively streets of Namche Bazaar, where comfortable lodges, cafés, and bakeries offer a pleasant celebration of your successful high-altitude adventure.
- Altitude: 3440
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals: B/L/D
The final trekking day retraces the trail along the Dudh Koshi River, passing familiar villages and forests that now feel like old friends after nearly two weeks in the mountains.
Upon reaching Lukla, you'll celebrate the successful completion of your trek with your guide and porter while enjoying your final evening in the Everest region.
- Altitude: 2860
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals: B/L/D
After breakfast, you'll board an early morning flight back to Kathmandu, once again enjoying spectacular aerial views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival, you'll transfer to your hotel and enjoy the comforts of the city.
The remainder of the day is free for shopping, sightseeing, or relaxing before your onward journey. In the evening, Shalom Adventure Holidays will host a farewell dinner to celebrate your successful Everest adventure and present you with a trekking completion certificate.
- Altitude: 1400
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals: B/L/D
Our Cost's
Cost Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off.
- Two nights' accommodation in Kathmandu at tourist hotel with breakfast (before and after the trek).
- Round-trip domestic flights between Kathmandu (or Ramechhap during peak season) and Lukla, including airport taxes.
- All necessary ground transportation as per the itinerary.
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit.
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit.
- Government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide with salary, meals, accommodation, insurance, and equipment.
- One experienced porter (shared between two trekkers) carrying up to 20 kg of luggage (maximum 10 kg per trekker).
- Accommodation in comfortable tea houses/lodges during the trek on a twin-sharing basis.
- Three meals a day during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) with tea or coffee at breakfast.
- Fresh seasonal fruits served after dinner on selected trekking days.
- Welcome and farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant in Kathmandu.
- Comprehensive first aid kit carried by the guide.
- Pulse oximeter for regular oxygen saturation monitoring during high-altitude trekking.
- All government taxes, local taxes, VAT, and official service charges.
- Official trekking completion certificate from Shalom Adventure Holidays.
Cost Excludes
- International airfare to and from Nepal.
- Nepal entry visa fees.
- Travel insurance (mandatory), including coverage for high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation.
- Personal trekking equipment and clothing (sleeping bag, down jacket, trekking poles, etc., unless rented).
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, except for the welcome and farewell dinners.
- Extra accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, flight delays, or itinerary changes.
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, Wi-Fi, battery charging, hot showers, snacks, bottled water, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and desserts.
- Tips and gratuities for guides, porters, and drivers.
- Expenses arising from natural disasters, landslides, political unrest, adverse weather, flight cancellations, or other circumstances beyond our control.
- Additional hotel nights or transportation costs caused by delayed or canceled Lukla flights.
- Any services not specifically mentioned under the Cost Includes section.
FAQ's
The Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes is considered a "challenging to strenuous" trek. The route involves daily walks of 5–8 hours, significant altitude gain, and crossing the high,Cho La Pass (5,420 m). While no technical climbing skills are required, a good level of physical fitness, endurance, and proper acclimatization are essential for a safe and enjoyable trek.
The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is generally stable, mountain views are crystal clear, and the trekking trails are in excellent condition. Winter treks are possible but colder, while the summer monsoon season brings frequent rain, clouds, and slippery trails.
Our standard itinerary is 16 days, including arrival and departure in Kathmandu. This itinerary includes two important acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar and Gokyo, helping trekkers adapt safely to the high altitude before crossing Cho La Pass and reaching Everest Base Camp.
Previous high-altitude trekking experience is helpful but not mandatory. If you are physically fit, enjoy hiking, and prepare with regular walking, stair climbing, or cardio exercises before your trip, you can successfully complete this trek. Our experienced guides will support you throughout the journey.
You will need two permits:
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit.
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit.
When you book with Shalom Adventure Holidays, we arrange all required permits before the trek begins.
Yes. Since the trek reaches Kala Patthar (5,644 m) and Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), there is a risk of altitude sickness. Our itinerary includes carefully planned acclimatization days to reduce this risk. Our guides monitor your condition daily and recommend gradual ascent, proper hydration, and adequate rest. If symptoms become serious, the guide will arrange a safe descent and emergency assistance if necessary.
Accommodation is provided in local **tea houses (mountain lodges)** with comfortable twin-sharing rooms. Bathrooms may be shared at higher elevations. Meals typically include Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, and continental dishes such as Dal Bhat, noodles, pasta, fried rice, soups, potatoes, eggs, pancakes, and porridge. Vegetarian options are widely available throughout the trek.
Essential items include sturdy trekking boots, Trekking pole, warm layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, thermal base layers, gloves, a warm hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a headlamp, a reusable water bottle, personal toiletries, and a daypack. A quality sleeping bag and down jacket are highly recommended and can also be rented in Kathmandu if needed.
Yes. We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers **high-altitude trekking up to 6,000 meters**, emergency helicopter evacuation, medical treatment, trip cancellation, and personal belongings. This provides valuable protection in case of illness, injury, or unexpected weather-related delays.
The Gokyo route offers a more diverse and rewarding Himalayan experience. In addition to reaching Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, you'll explore the stunning turquoise Gokyo Lakes, climb Gokyo Ri, cross the spectacular Cho La Pass, and enjoy quieter trails with incredible panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, and many other Himalayan peaks. It is widely regarded as one of the most scenic trekking routes in the Everest region.
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