EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK VIA GOKYO LAKE 16 DAYS
EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK VIA GOKYO LAKE 16 DAYS
The Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake is a 16-day adventure that offers a unique and immersive experience in the heart of the Himalayas. Organised by Sherpa Expeditions, this trek combines the classic Everest Base Camp route with the stunning beauty of Gokyo Lakes, providing trekkers with an unparalleled experience of Nepal’s natural wonders and rich cultural heritage.
Starting from Kathmandu, the journey takes you through the scenic landscapes of the Khumbu region, passing traditional Sherpa villages, monasteries, and lush forests of rhododendron and pine. The trek then follows a high-altitude route to Gokyo Lakes, a series of pristine turquoise lakes nestled at the foot of towering peaks, including the mighty Cho Oyu and Mount Everest. Gokyo is renowned for its spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, and the Gokyo Ri ascent offers breathtaking panoramas of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
After soaking in the serenity of Gokyo Lakes, the trek continues towards the Everest Base Camp, where you will stand at the foot of the world’s highest peak. Along the way, you'll traverse challenging high-altitude terrain, including the famous Cho La Pass, offering trekkers a thrilling and rewarding experience. Each step of the journey is supported by the experienced Sherpa guides, ensuring safety and comfort in the rugged mountain environment.
Throughout this trek, trekkers will be immersed in the culture of the Sherpa people, with opportunities to visit ancient monasteries and learn about the traditions that have shaped life in this remote region. The hospitality of the local Sherpas and their deep connection to the mountains provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere that enhances the entire journey.
This 16-day Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lake Trek is a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion, designed for those seeking a challenging yet rewarding trek in the shadow of the world's tallest mountains.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu & Transfer to Hotel.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by a Sherpa Expeditions representative and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for relaxation or exploring the vibrant capital city. You can visit nearby attractions like Durbar Square or Thamel, and prepare for the trek ahead.
Day 2 : Fly to Lukla (2,804 m) and Trek to Phakding (2,610 m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
After an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, you will begin your trek with a gentle descent to Phakding. This beautiful village is located along the Dudh Koshi River. The trek takes about 4-5 hours, passing through forests and small Sherpa villages, allowing you to gradually adjust to the mountain environment.
Day 3 : Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,441 m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today’s trek is a bit more challenging as you make your way towards Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Everest region. The trail is steep, but rewarding, with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. You'll pass through several villages, cross bridges, and finally reach Namche, a bustling town that is a major trading hub and the perfect place for acclimatization.
Day 4 : Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar.
Acclimatization is key to avoid altitude sickness, and today, you’ll take it easy. Explore Namche Bazaar and its surroundings, including a visit to the Everest View Hotel for panoramic views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, and other peaks. You can also visit the local museum or hike up to the nearby villages for better acclimatization.
Day 5 : Trek to Dole (3,680 m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today, the trail ascends gradually through the beautiful forests of rhododendron and pine. As you move higher, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the peaks like Thamserku and Kantega. After about 5-6 hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at Dole, a quiet village that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 6 : Trek from Dole to Machermo (4,470 m) Duration: 3-5 hours.
The trek continues with a steady climb towards Machermo, passing through meadows and sparse forests. This area is known for its wildlife, including Himalayan tahr and musk deer. The views of the peaks become more dramatic, and after 3-5 hours, you'll reach Machermo, where you’ll rest and acclimatize further.
Day 7 : Trek to Gokyo (4,790 m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today's trek is one of the highlights as you make your way to the stunning Gokyo Valley. The trail leads you past beautiful alpine lakes, culminating in the serene and colorful Gokyo Lakes. You’ll be surrounded by towering peaks, including Cho Oyu and Everest, making for an unforgettable experience.
Day 8 : Trek to Gokyo Ri (5,483 m) and Back to Gokyo via Trek to Thangnak (4,500 m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Early this morning, you will hike to Gokyo Ri, a viewpoint that offers one of the best panoramas in the Himalayas. From the summit, you will have a stunning view of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the Gokyo Lakes below. After descending back to Gokyo, you’ll trek on to Thangnak for a brief stay.
Day 9 : Cross Cho La Pass (5,368 m) and Trek to Dzongla (4,830 m) Duration: 6-9 hours.
Today, you’ll cross the challenging Cho La Pass, which involves a steep climb to over 5,000 meters. The pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. After crossing, you’ll descend to Dzongla, where you can rest and take in the beauty of the landscape.
Day 10 : Trek to Lobuche (4,910 m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
The trek today is relatively short but continues to gain altitude. You’ll make your way to Lobuche, a small settlement at the foot of the towering peaks of Lobuche East and West. From here, you’ll get your first views of the Khumbu Glacier, which you’ll trek along in the coming days.
Day 11 : Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,365 m) and then Back to Gorak Shep (5,180 m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today, you’ll finally reach the iconic Everest Base Camp, where climbers begin their ascent of the world’s highest peak. You’ll have time to take in the awe-inspiring scenery before heading back to Gorak Shep for an overnight stay. The atmosphere around Everest Base Camp is nothing short of magical.
Day 12 : Hike Up to Kala Patthar (5,555 m) and Trek Down to Pheriche (4,300 m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Early in the morning, you'll hike to Kala Patthar, the highest point on the trek, for incredible views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and the surrounding peaks. After soaking in the views, you’ll descend to Pheriche for the night, passing through lush valleys and small Sherpa villages.
Day 13 : Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,441 m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
The trek back to Namche Bazaar is a long and steady descent through the beautiful Khumbu region. As you retrace your steps through the familiar villages, you’ll be able to reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed. You’ll arrive in Namche for a well-earned rest.
Day 14 : Trek to Lukla (2,804 m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Your final day of trekking takes you back to Lukla, passing through the forests and villages you first encountered at the start of the trek. After about 6-7 hours of trekking, you’ll arrive in Lukla, where you can relax and reflect on your unforgettable Himalayan adventure.
Day 15 : Morning Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu Duration: 30-minute flight.
In the morning, you will board a flight back to Kathmandu from Lukla. Enjoy the breathtaking views during the flight as you return to the capital. Once in Kathmandu, you can rest or explore the city and do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs.
Day 16 : Transfer to International Airport.
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your international flight. Reflect on your adventure as you head home with memories of a lifetime in the Everest region.
SERVICES
Cost Included In Your Package
- Airport transfer on arrival and departure by private vehicles
- Two night’s standard twin share 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, the main course) during the trek.
- One highly experienced Sherpa Teams’s government-licensed, English-speaking local guide covering meals, flight, insurance, accommodations, and equipment for the guide.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- All the necessary documents such as Sagarmatha national park Fees and TIMS card (Trekking Information Management System)
- Trekking lodges or tea houses during the trek (Standard)
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- An assistant guide for the group of 8 pax or above
- Round trip flight from Kathmandu – Lukla - Kathmandu including applicable departure taxes
- Seasonal available fresh fruits every evening after dinner.
- Sherpa Teams' Certificate of appreciations after the successful trek
- Sherpa Teams’s complimentary free hiking T-shirt
- Oximeter to measure your oxygen and Pulse level during the trek in the mountain, it’s very useful for all the trekkers to be aware of the high altitude sickness.
- Emergency rescue operation assistance in arranging in case of complex health conditions (funded by your Travel Insurance)
- All government, Local taxes, and official Expenses
Cost Excludes
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Extra nights accommodation and meals before and after the trek
- International airfare
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- Travel insurance - insurance has to cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation
- Personal cloths and trekking equipment
- Additional cost, the itinerary modifications or delay caused by out of management control due to the weather condition, illness, change of government policies, strikes, and physical condition, etc.
- Gratitudes to the guides and staffs (Recommended by Nepali culture )
- Any other expenses that are not mentioned in the Price "inclusive section" of this program
- NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. is nonrefundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
- Sleeping Bag (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Duffel Bag (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Fleece jacket or pullover
- Waterproof windbreaker or windcheater
- Thermal underclothes
- Rain poncho
- Down jacket (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Fleece or wool trousers
- Sun hat or scarf
- Trekking pants (two pairs)
- Mittens or woolen gloves
- Hiking socks (several pairs)
- Moisture-wicking shirts, including t-shirts
- Trekking shoes or boots with spare laces
- Flip-flops or sandals for relaxing in the evenings
- Underwear (several pairs)
- Swimsuit or swimming costume
- Sunglasses
- Headlamp or flashlight/torch
- Sleeping bag (Sherpa Teams can provide this for you)
- Trekking poles (if desired)
- Hiking backpack with a capacity of at least 40 liters
- Small lock for your backpack
- Reusable water bottles (at least two liters)
- Water purification tablets or filtration device
- Wash towel
- Basic first aid kit
Toiletries (tissues, toilet paper, moisturizer, lip balm, sunscreen, sanitary pads, hand sanitizer, nail clippers, a small mirror, toothbrush, toothpaste, glasses, contacts, etc.)
GOOD TO KNOW
📝 Good to Know Before You Go
1. High Altitude Awareness
The Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake takes you to elevations over 5,500 meters (18,000 feet), where the air is thin, and altitude sickness can be a risk. It's essential to acclimatize properly during the trek. Sherpa Expedition guides are well-trained in handling altitude-related issues and will ensure a gradual ascent to help you adjust. Drink plenty of water, and rest when needed to prevent altitude sickness.
2. Physical Preparation
This trek is challenging, and physical fitness is crucial. The path includes steep ascents, descents, and long days of walking. It's advisable to train beforehand by hiking on varied terrains and doing cardio exercises to prepare your body for the demanding journey.
3. Weather Conditions
The weather can vary significantly at different altitudes. In lower regions, the climate is generally mild, but as you climb higher, temperatures drop, and snow is common, especially during the colder months (October to March). It's essential to pack appropriate clothing, including layers, a good-quality down jacket, and waterproof gear.
4. Cultural Etiquette
The Everest region is home to the Sherpa people, who have a rich culture and Buddhist traditions. Be respectful when visiting monasteries or interacting with locals. It's common to greet with a "Namaste" and ask permission before taking photographs. Always show respect for the culture and their way of life.
5. Packing Essentials
Pack wisely for your trek. Key items include a good-quality sleeping bag, trekking poles, sturdy hiking boots, a waterproof jacket, sunglasses with UV protection, and sunscreen. Don’t forget a camera to capture the stunning views, as well as a power bank or solar charger to keep your devices charged.
6. Sherpa Guides and Porters
Sherpa Expedition ensures a highly experienced team of guides and porters. They play a critical role in your safety and comfort throughout the trek. The Sherpas are not only knowledgeable about the terrain and altitude but also share rich insights into the local culture, ensuring a more immersive trekking experience.
7. Permits and Paperwork
You will need a few permits for the Everest region, including the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card. Your Sherpa Expedition team will assist with all necessary paperwork to make your journey as smooth as possible.
8. Environmental Responsibility
The Everest region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's essential to minimize your environmental impact. Follow the principles of "Leave No Trace" by disposing of waste properly and avoiding the use of plastic bottles. Sherpa Expedition promotes eco-friendly practices and sustainable trekking.
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FAQS
How difficult is the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake?
This trek is considered challenging due to the high altitude, long days of walking, and steep terrain. It requires a moderate level of fitness, but it is achievable for most people with proper preparation. The trek is also well-paced, allowing for adequate acclimatization.
What is the best time to do the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake?
The ideal months for this trek are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer stable weather conditions, clear skies, and the best visibility of the mountains. Winter and summer (monsoon) are generally avoided due to harsh conditions and frequent rains.
Do I need to be an experienced trekker to join this trek?
No, you do not need to be an experienced trekker, but you should be in good physical condition and prepared for a strenuous hike. If you regularly engage in physical activities like hiking, running, or walking, you should be able to handle the trek with the right preparation.
What permits are required for the trek?
For this trek, you will need two main permits: the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card. These permits are essential to access the Everest region, and your Sherpa Expedition team will assist you with the paperwork.
How long does the trek take?
The trek takes around 16 days to complete. This includes trekking to Gokyo Lakes, crossing the Cho La Pass, and then heading to Everest Base Camp. It also allows time for acclimatization and exploration.
What should I pack for the trek?
Essential items include comfortable trekking boots, warm clothing (including layers), a down jacket, trekking poles, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a good-quality sleeping bag. Don't forget a camera, a power bank, and a first-aid kit.
Is there internet or phone service during the trek?
There is limited internet and phone service along the trail, especially in the lower regions like Namche Bazaar and Lukla. However, in more remote areas, Wi-Fi is often available for a fee. Keep in mind that the connection may be slow.
Will I need to carry all my gear myself?
No, Sherpa Expedition provides porters to carry your gear. You only need to carry a small daypack with essentials like water, snacks, a camera, and a jacket. Porters will carry the bulk of your luggage.
What happens if I get altitude sickness?
Your Sherpa guides are trained to recognize and deal with altitude sickness. If symptoms appear, you will be encouraged to descend to a lower altitude immediately. Sherpa Expedition ensures gradual acclimatization, minimizing the risk of altitude sickness.
Can I customize the itinerary for this trek?
Yes, Sherpa Expedition offers the flexibility to customize itineraries according to your needs. If you wish to extend your trek, add rest days, or change the route, you can discuss it with the team ahead of time to tailor the experience.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
100%
Based On 5436 Reviews
Emily White
Canada
March 4, 2025
Perfectly Organized and Beautiful Trek
My experience with Sherpa Lhakpa was fantastic! He was incredibly attentive to all of my needs and always had a smile on his face. The trek to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes was well-organized by the Sherpa Expedition team. Every detail, from the teahouses to the trekking gear, was taken care of. The views along the way were absolutely breathtaking, and I’ll never forget the moment I reached Everest Base Camp.
Poornapragnya P R
India
December 29, 2024
Outstanding experience!
This trek is probably the best starting point for people planning to trek the peaks in the Everest Region. The trek difficulty is moderate for an absolutely unprepared person, and easy for experienced hikers. The trek is filled with stunning beauty of the very diverse Himalayan terrain. It was a fine experience with dense forests, plain mountains and rocky regions. The trek to the summit was exceptional, and I witnessed the sunrise of a lifetime at the summit, along with a great panoramic view of Mt. Everest and the Greater Himalayan Range. Climatic conditions were good, except for very strong wind on the way to the summit from base camp. I profusely thank Mr. Lhakpa Sona, the Sherpa who was with me throughout the trek, making accommodation and food arrangements during the trek, and for guiding me at each step as it was my first Himalayan trek. I also thank Mr. Ang Giljin the porter, who carried my personal effects and luggage and was incredibly supportive. Finally, I thank Mr. Ram Barakoti for organizing this trek for me. I'm already making plans for my next trek to Gokyo valley and Mt. Gokyo Ri summit with Lhakpa, as the next step towards my dream of summiting Mt. Everest. Thank you Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Pvt. Ltd. ! Let's meet again soon.
Victoria Rowland
Australia
October 23, 2024
A Journey Beyond Expectations
I embarked on the Annapurna Circuit trek with Sherpa Expedition & Trekking, and it exceeded all my expectations. The professionalism of the staff was evident from the start. Our guide was not only skilled but also friendly, making the trek enjoyable and educational. The landscapes were jaw-dropping, with diverse terrain and charming villages. Every day brought new wonders, and the support from the Sherpa team made all the difference. I can’t wait to return for another adventure!
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