Overview
The Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek is a remarkable journey that combines the best of two iconic trekking routes in the Everest region. This trek not only takes you to the famous Everest Base Camp (EBC), where trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking views of Mount Everest and other towering peaks, but it also includes a visit to the stunning Gokyo Valley. Known for its crystal-clear lakes and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu, Gokyo Valley offers a more tranquil alternative to the classic EBC trek. The trek starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, followed by a series of days spent ascending through beautiful Sherpa villages, lush forests, and alpine meadows. The route takes you through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, and Dingboche, before reaching the awe-inspiring Everest Base Camp.
The highlight of the Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek is the ascent to Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters), a viewpoint that provides one of the best panoramic views of the Everest range, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. From Gokyo, the trail continues to Everest Base Camp, passing through the famous Khumbu Glacier and crossing high-altitude landscapes. The combination of Gokyo’s serene lakes and the rugged challenge of the Everest Base Camp makes this trek a unique and highly rewarding experience. With Explore Holiday Treks, you will be guided by experienced Sherpa guides who are familiar with the terrain and can provide cultural insights into the lives of the local Sherpa communities. We ensure that your trek is comfortable and safe, providing carefully chosen accommodations and delicious meals along the way. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a first-time adventurer, this trek offers a perfect balance of adventure and natural beauty.
Everest Base Camp Trek
The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most iconic and sought-after treks in the world, offering trekkers a chance to experience the majesty of the Himalayas and stand at the foot of Mount Everest, the tallest peak on Earth. The journey begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, where you will embark on a trek through the heart of the Khumbu region. Along the way, you’ll pass through Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche, which are nestled in valleys and surrounded by spectacular mountain vistas. The trek gradually ascends through dense forests, alpine meadows, and across suspension bridges, offering both a physical challenge and incredible views at every turn.
Reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters) is the ultimate goal of this trek, providing a sense of achievement and an unparalleled view of the Khumbu Icefall and the towering peak of Mount Everest. The trek also includes visits to key landmarks such as Tengboche Monastery, where trekkers can witness the rich Buddhist traditions of the region, and Kala Patthar (5,545 meters), a vantage point that offers one of the best panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and other surrounding peaks. The Everest Base Camp Trek is a physically demanding journey that requires proper preparation, but with Explore Holiday Treks, you will receive expert guidance and support throughout the trek. Our experienced Sherpa guides ensure your safety, providing acclimatization tips and helping you navigate the high-altitude terrain. We prioritize your comfort and well-being, offering well-selected lodges and nutritious meals along the way to make your adventure as enjoyable as it is memorable.
Gokyo Valley Trek
The Gokyo Valley Trek is an alternative route to the Everest Base Camp Trek that offers stunning views and a more peaceful trekking experience in the Everest region. Unlike the classic EBC route, the Gokyo Valley trek takes you through the beautiful Gokyo Valley, known for its turquoise glacial lakes, traditional Sherpa villages, and incredible mountain views. Starting from Lukla, the trail passes through Namche Bazaar, where trekkers acclimatize and enjoy views of Everest and other nearby peaks. From there, the trek follows a more scenic route through the Gokyo Valley, where you can explore the famous Gokyo Lakes and the breathtaking Gokyo Ri, a viewpoint that provides stunning panoramic views of the Everest massif and neighboring peaks like Makalu and Cho Oyu.
The trek to Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters) is the highlight of the journey, offering spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The Gokyo Lakes, considered sacred by the local people, add an extra layer of beauty to the trek. The Gokyo Valley is quieter and less crowded compared to the Everest Base Camp route, which makes it an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy the serenity and natural beauty of the Himalayas without the hustle and bustle of the classic EBC trek. With Explore Holiday Treks, you will benefit from our expertise and attention to detail, as we provide comfortable accommodations, nutritious meals, and expert guides throughout your journey. The Gokyo Valley trek is perfect for trekkers who want to experience the wonders of the Everest region with a focus on tranquility and scenic beauty, while still being able to visit key landmarks like Gokyo Ri and the surrounding lakes.
Why Choose Us (Explore Holiday Treks)
At Explore Holiday Treks, we are passionate about providing an unforgettable trekking experience in the Himalayas. Whether you're embarking on the challenging Everest Base Camp Trek, the serene Gokyo Valley Trek, or the combined Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek, we ensure that every aspect of your journey is well-planned, safe, and enjoyable. With years of experience and in-depth knowledge of the region, we offer personalized trekking packages designed to match your preferences, whether you're a seasoned trekker or new to high-altitude trekking. Our expert Sherpa guides are highly experienced and know the Everest region inside out. They not only ensure your safety but also offer valuable cultural insights and stories about the local Sherpa communities you will encounter along the way.
We prioritize your comfort and well-being throughout the trek, providing well-selected lodges, nutritious meals, and all necessary support services to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable journey. Our itineraries are designed with proper acclimatization schedules to help you adjust to the altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness. Additionally, we follow sustainable and responsible tourism practices, supporting local communities and minimizing our environmental impact. When you choose Explore Holiday Treks, you're choosing a company that is committed to providing a premium trekking experience with a focus on safety, cultural immersion, and adventure. Let us guide you through one of the most awe-inspiring regions in the world while ensuring you have the adventure of a lifetime.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m) and Transfer to Hotel
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Explore Holiday Treks will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in and resting, you have the afternoon free to explore the vibrant city of Kathmandu or simply relax in your comfortable hotel. In the evening, you will attend a pre-trek briefing at the hotel where you’ll meet your trekking guide and fellow trekkers, ensuring that you’re fully prepared for your adventure ahead.
Day 2 : Fly to Lukla (2,820 m) and Trek to Phakding (2,645 m) – 4 Hours
After an early breakfast, we head to the domestic terminal for a short, scenic flight to Lukla. The flight itself is a thrilling experience, offering panoramic views of the mountains as you approach Lukla’s famous runway. Once we land in Lukla, we begin our trek by descending gently towards Phakding. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, passing through small Sherpa villages and lush pine forests. After a 4-hour trek, we arrive at Phakding, a picturesque village where we will stay overnight in a comfortable lodge.
Day 3 : Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) – 6 Hours
Today, the trail gradually ascends towards Namche Bazaar, the bustling hub of the Everest region. We cross the Dudh Koshi River via several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Bridge, and ascend through dense forests of rhododendron and pine. As we approach Namche, the view of Everest and neighboring peaks begins to unfold. Namche Bazaar is a lively Sherpa town with shops, restaurants, and guesthouses, making it the perfect place to rest and acclimatize. We’ll stay in a comfortable lodge here and prepare for the next day’s adventure.
Day 4 : Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar – Short Scenic Hike
An important day for acclimatization, today we rest in Namche Bazaar but take a short scenic hike to help our bodies adjust to the higher altitude. We will hike to the Everest View Hotel for breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, and other surrounding peaks. This hike is not strenuous, and it also offers an excellent opportunity to learn more about Sherpa culture and traditions. After the hike, you can explore the bustling streets of Namche Bazaar, visit the local monastery, or relax at your lodge.
Day 5 : Trek to Dole (4,110 m) – 6 Hours
After a good night’s rest in Namche, we continue our trek towards Dole. The trail leaves the main valley and ascends through the forest, providing excellent views of the surrounding peaks. As we move higher, we begin to see alpine meadows and yak pastures. The walk is gradual but steady, with several ups and downs along the way. After 6 hours of trekking, we arrive at Dole, a small settlement with a few lodges. We’ll rest here for the night, enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Day 6 : Trek to Machermo (4,470 m) – 4 Hours
Today, the trek from Dole to Machermo is relatively short but involves a steady ascent as we continue to gain altitude. The route offers beautiful views of Cho Oyu, and we pass through alpine meadows with wildflowers and grazing yaks. The scenery is spectacular, with snow-capped peaks becoming more prominent as we approach Machermo. We’ll spend the night at a simple lodge in Machermo, one of the higher villages along the Gokyo Valley.
Day 7 : Trek to Gokyo Lake (4,800 m) – 4 Hours
Today, we make our way to the stunning Gokyo Lake, a series of crystal-clear glacial lakes nestled at the base of towering peaks. The trek takes us through rocky terrain and across a moraine before arriving at the first of the Gokyo Lakes. As we continue, we are greeted by the magnificent Gokyo Lake, surrounded by mountains, with views of Everest and Cho Oyu in the distance. The area is serene and peaceful, and we’ll overnight in a lodge overlooking the lake, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty of the area.
Day 8 : Morning at Gokyo, Climb Gokyo Ri & Trek to Thangnak (4,700 m)
In the morning, we’ll climb Gokyo Ri, a viewpoint that offers one of the best panoramic views in the Everest region. From the summit, you’ll have a stunning view of Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, and other Himalayan giants. After spending some time soaking in the view and taking photos, we descend back to Gokyo Lake for breakfast before continuing our trek to Thangnak. The hike to Thangnak takes about 3-4 hours, and we’ll settle into a simple lodge for the night.
Day 9 : Trek to Dzongla (4,830 m) – 6 Hours
Today, we continue on to Dzongla, a small settlement located near the base of the Chola Pass. The trek involves a steady ascent and takes us through rocky terrain and high-altitude meadows. Along the way, we’ll have spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Dzongla is a quiet place where we can rest and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. We’ll stay in a basic lodge here, preparing for the challenging days ahead.
Day 10 : Trek to Lobuche (4,940 m) – 5 Hours
From Dzongla, we head towards Lobuche, passing through high-altitude terrain with incredible views of the Khumbu Glacier and surrounding peaks. The trail is relatively straightforward, but the altitude begins to take its toll, so we’ll take it slow. Upon arrival in Lobuche, we’ll rest in a lodge and enjoy the majestic views of Mount Pumori and the surrounding peaks.
Day 11 : Trek to Everest Base Camp via Gorak Shep (5,364 m) – 7 Hours
Today is a major highlight of the trek: we make our way to Everest Base Camp! From Lobuche, we first trek to Gorak Shep, a small settlement near the base of Mount Everest. After a quick rest, we continue on the final leg to Everest Base Camp itself, crossing rocky moraines and glacier terrain. At Base Camp, we’ll enjoy the spectacular views of the Khumbu Icefall, and you’ll have the chance to reflect on your journey. After spending some time at Base Camp, we return to Gorak Shep for the night.
Day 12 : Early Morning Kala Patthar (5,545 m) & Trek to Pheriche or Pangboche (4,240 m)
This morning, we rise early to make the ascent to Kala Patthar, one of the best viewpoints for Mount Everest. From the summit of Kala Patthar, you’ll have a 360-degree view of Everest and the surrounding peaks — an unforgettable sight. After spending some time at the summit, we descend back to Gorak Shep, have breakfast, and then continue trekking downhill to Pheriche or Pangboche, depending on time and availability. Both villages offer stunning views of the mountains and provide a comfortable place to rest after the strenuous morning.
Day 13 : Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) – 6-7 Hours
From Pheriche or Pangboche, we continue our descent back to Namche Bazaar. The trek takes us through the picturesque villages of Tengboche and Khumjung, passing monasteries and forests filled with rhododendron. The trek is mostly downhill, but still offers beautiful views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Once we arrive in Namche Bazaar, we’ll spend the night in a comfortable lodge, enjoying a well-deserved rest.
Day 14 : Trek to Lukla (2,820 m) – 6-7 Hours
The final day of trekking takes us from Namche Bazaar back to Lukla. The trail descends through the same scenic route, passing forests and Sherpa villages, and crossing suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River. After several hours of trekking, we reach Lukla, where we’ll celebrate the end of our trek. We’ll stay in a simple lodge in Lukla, preparing for our flight back to Kathmandu the following day.
Day 15 : Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu – 35 Minutes
Today, we take an early morning flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu. The scenic flight offers one last opportunity to admire the Himalayan peaks from the air. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we’ll transfer you to your hotel, where you can relax and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. You may choose to explore Kathmandu further, shop for souvenirs, or simply unwind after your epic trek.
Day 16 : Final Departure
After breakfast, we will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. If you have time, we can assist with any last-minute shopping or sightseeing before you leave. We bid you farewell and wish you safe travels, hoping that your memories of the Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek with Explore Holiday Treks will stay with you forever.
Inclusions
What is included?
- All arrival and departure transportation from the airport to hotel and vice versa.
- all ground transportations.
- Accommodation in a hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast included.
- A guided tour of Kathmandu.
- Domestic flights from Kathmandu to Lukla and back.
- All necessary permits for trekking, including fees for Sagarmatha National Park.
- Full board during the trek, which means meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- The trek includes a guide who will receive daily wages, meals, accommodation, transportation allowance, and medical insurance (only for field staff/porters).
- A group dinner upon arrival or departure, with a briefing about the trek.
- A comprehensive medical kit carried by our guide during the entire trek.
- Private vehicles for sightseeing tours based on the group size, accompanied by a city guide.
- government tax and vat
What isn't included?
- Nepal visa and medical/travel insurance are not included.
- Meals in Kathmandu and personal expenses like laundry are not covered.
- If you prefer a single room in Kathmandu or during treks (where available), there's an additional cost.
- Emergency evacuation, whether by any means of transportation or helicopter service, is an extra expense.
- You need to bring your personal trek gear, including sleeping bags, duvet/down jackets, and kit/duffel bags.
- Additional snacks, refreshments, and drinking water are at your own cost.
- If you have to return early from the trek due to personal reasons or sickness, you'll need to cover the extra expenses yourself (can be claimed from your insurance).
- Bring a personal medical kit based on your doctor's advice.
- TIPS and donations
Complimentary
Booking Terms and Conditions:
Booking a Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek with Explore Holiday Treks is simple and secure. To confirm your spot on the trek, you will need to fill out the booking form and submit a deposit, typically 20-30% of the total trek price. Full payment is due at least 30 days before the trek’s departure. After booking, Explore Holiday Treks will send a detailed itinerary outlining the trek’s route, accommodation, and any other important information. All trekkers are required to provide a copy of their passport and relevant medical information as part of the booking process. Changes to your booking, such as altering dates or upgrading services, can be made based on availability and may incur additional costs. The company recommends that trekkers purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for medical emergencies, altitude sickness, and evacuation.
Booking, Cancellation, and Refund Policy:
Explore Holiday Treks has a transparent and flexible cancellation policy. If you cancel your Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek more than 30 days before departure, you will receive a full refund minus a small processing fee. Cancellations made between 15 and 30 days prior to the trek will be refunded 50% of the total trek price, while cancellations made within 14 days of departure are non-refundable. In case of unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters, political unrest, or a medical emergency, the company will assist in rescheduling the trek or provide a partial refund based on the situation. If the trek is canceled by the company due to safety concerns or unavoidable events, a full refund or rescheduling options will be offered. Trekker’s health and safety are top priorities, and the company ensures they are fully informed in the case of any disruptions to the itinerary.
Transportation:
Transportation to and from the starting point of the Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek is an essential part of the trip, and Explore Holiday Treks ensures that it is handled with care. The journey begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a thrilling mountain flight that offers stunning views of the Himalayas. Lukla is the gateway to the Everest region and the starting point for the trek. After landing, trekkers will begin their trek to Namche Bazaar, with the route depending on the itinerary chosen. Throughout the trek, Explore Holiday Treks provides safe and reliable transport by air to and from Lukla, and for trekkers wishing to upgrade, helicopter transport can also be arranged (at an additional cost). On the return journey, transportation from Lukla back to Kathmandu will be by flight. For those looking to travel by road, private jeep or bus options can be arranged for the Kathmandu-Lukla route, although this takes longer and is generally considered less convenient than flying.
Trip and the Weather:
The Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek takes trekkers to some of the most iconic locations in the Everest region, including Gokyo Lakes, Gokyo Ri (viewpoint), and Everest Base Camp itself. As with any trek in the Everest region, weather conditions can significantly affect the trek’s experience. The best times to undertake the trek are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making it ideal for trekking. Winter (December to February) brings cold temperatures and the possibility of snow, making high-altitude sections challenging, while the monsoon season (June to August) can lead to heavy rain, landslides, and muddy trails, making it less ideal for trekking. The weather in the Everest region can change rapidly, and trekkers should be prepared for cold mornings and evenings, particularly at higher altitudes, with daytime temperatures being more moderate.
Major Trips for Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek:
The Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek offers trekkers an unforgettable journey with breathtaking views and highlights. The trek begins with a flight to Lukla, followed by a trek through beautiful Sherpa villages such as Phakding and Namche Bazaar, the bustling hub of the Everest region. From Namche, trekkers will head to Tengboche, known for its famous monastery and panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other peaks. Continuing on, trekkers will reach the picturesque Gokyo Lakes, a series of turquoise high-altitude lakes that provide stunning views of the surrounding peaks. A hike to Gokyo Ri, a popular viewpoint, offers one of the best panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Lhotse. From here, trekkers will trek to Everest Base Camp, where they can enjoy close-up views of the mighty Everest. The trek also includes visits to traditional Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, and rich cultural experiences, all while enjoying some of the most spectacular mountain views in the world.
Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty:
The Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek is considered a challenging but achievable trek for most fit and determined individuals. The trek’s difficulty lies not only in the physical demands of walking for several hours a day at high altitudes but also in the altitude gain. The trek reaches altitudes of over 5,380 meters (17,600 feet) at Everest Base Camp and 5,357 meters (17,575 feet) at Gokyo Ri, so altitude sickness can be a concern for those who do not acclimatize properly. The trail involves several days of walking at altitudes above 3,000 meters (9,840 feet), and while the terrain is not technically difficult, it can be challenging due to steep ascents, rocky paths, and long daily trekking hours (5-8 hours a day). Trekking experience, physical fitness, and acclimatization are key to completing the trek successfully. Those who are new to high-altitude trekking are advised to prepare thoroughly and be ready for potential altitude-related symptoms.
Food and Accommodation:
On the Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek, trekkers can expect basic but comfortable accommodation in teahouses along the route. The rooms are simple, with basic amenities such as a bed, blankets, and shared bathrooms, but they are clean and provide a safe place to rest each night. In the higher-altitude areas, accommodations may be more basic. As a budget-friendly option, meals are simple, consisting of traditional Nepali dishes such as dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), noodle soups, and Tibetan bread. For those looking for Western options, many teahouses also serve dishes like pasta, pancakes, and eggs. Meals are designed to provide the necessary energy and nutrition for the demanding trek, and while the food is simple, it is usually freshly prepared and tasty. It’s important to note that food and accommodation options may be limited at higher elevations, and trekkers should expect fewer choices as they ascend.
Communication and Networking:
During the Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek, communication options are limited, especially as trekkers venture further into the Everest region. Most villages have some form of mobile coverage, though signal strength can be weak or non-existent in the more remote areas. Many teahouses offer Wi-Fi or satellite phone access, though it is generally slow and comes at an additional cost. For urgent matters, satellite phones are available in certain locations. To ensure trekkers’ safety, Explore Holiday Treks ensures that guides are equipped with communication devices to stay in contact with base camp. Trekkers should be prepared for limited internet and mobile connectivity during the trek, as this is a remote region. Those looking to stay connected should consider limiting their usage and plan for slower internet speeds.
Explore Holiday Treks Team for Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek:
Explore Holiday Treks is dedicated to providing an exceptional team to guide trekkers through the Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek. The team consists of professional and experienced guides, many of whom are from the Everest region and have extensive knowledge of the trail, culture, and safety protocols. The guides are trained in first aid and altitude sickness prevention, ensuring trekkers are in safe hands throughout the trek. In addition, experienced porters will carry your gear, allowing you to focus on the trek itself. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and supportive, always ready to assist with any questions or concerns. The company places high importance on ethical tourism, ensuring that all team members are fairly compensated and treated with respect. Personalized attention and exceptional customer service are hallmarks of Explore Holiday Treks, making your Gokyo Everest Base Camp xexperience memorable and safe.
Important Note:
Before exploring on the Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek, trekkers should be aware of the physical and mental challenges posed by high-altitude trekking. Acclimatization is key to preventing altitude sickness, and trekkers should follow the guide’s recommendations for slow and steady progress to higher altitudes. Trekking at high altitudes requires adequate preparation, and it is essential to bring appropriate clothing, gear, and a first aid kit. Travel insurance, including coverage for evacuation, is highly recommended, as the terrain can be remote and healthcare facilities may be limited. While the trek offers an incredible opportunity to witness the beauty of the Himalayas, trekkers must respect local customs, the environment, and the fragile ecosystem of the Everest region. Leave No Trace principles should be followed to minimize the impact on this pristine area.