GOKYO AND EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK 12 DAYS
GOKYO AND EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK 12 DAYS
The Gokyo and Everest Base Camp Trek is a thrilling 12-day adventure that combines the best of the Everest region, taking trekkers through awe-inspiring landscapes, serene lakes, and the world’s highest peaks. This trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and physical challenges, making it a must-do for adventure enthusiasts and those seeking to explore the heart of the Himalayas.
Your journey begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, followed by a trek to Phakding and onward to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant gateway to Everest. As you gradually gain altitude, you’ll have the chance to acclimatize, passing through lush forests, traditional Sherpa villages, and experiencing the local culture.
From Namche, the trail leads you towards Dole and then to Gokyo, a tranquil area known for its stunning turquoise lakes. A hike to Gokyo Ri provides one of the best panoramic views of the Everest, Makalu, and Cho Oyu mountain ranges, creating unforgettable memories.
The trek then takes you across the challenging Chola Pass, one of the highest passes in the region, before heading towards Everest Base Camp. The journey to Base Camp is filled with dramatic views of glaciers, icefalls, and towering peaks. After exploring Base Camp, a hike to Kala Patthar offers one of the most iconic views of Mount Everest at sunrise, a highlight of the entire trek.
The descent retraces your steps back to Namche Bazaar and Lukla, where you’ll take a flight back to Kathmandu, completing your unforgettable 12-day adventure. This trek is perfect for those looking for an adventure that combines natural beauty, cultural exploration, and the thrill of standing at the base of the world's tallest mountain.
- 🏔️ Everest Base Camp: Stand at the foot of the world's highest mountain, experiencing the iconic Khumbu Icefall and breathtaking views of Everest.
- 🌅 Kala Patthar Sunrise: Hike to Kala Patthar for a stunning sunrise view of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks.
- 💧 Gokyo Lakes: Explore the serene and picturesque Gokyo Lakes, set against the backdrop of towering Himalayan peaks.
- 🏞️ Gokyo Ri: Reach the summit of Gokyo Ri for panoramic views of Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the Ngozumpa Glacier.
- 🏞️ Chola Pass: Cross the challenging and scenic Chola Pass, offering dramatic views of glaciers and surrounding peaks.
- 🏡 Sherpa Villages: Visit traditional Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, experiencing the unique culture and hospitality of the local people.
- 🌲 Scenic Trails: Trek through lush forests, alpine meadows, and picturesque valleys, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Himalayas.
- 🌄 High Altitude Trekking: Conquer high-altitude terrain, with challenging ascents and the chance to experience the thrill of trekking at over 5,000 meters.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Fly to Lukla (2,804 m) and Trek to Phakding (2,610 m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
Your adventure begins with an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, where you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of the Himalayas. After landing, start your trek to Phakding along the Dudh Koshi River. The route is relatively easy, passing through villages and lush forests, offering your first glimpses of the Himalayan landscape. Overnight in Phakding.
Day 2 : Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,441 m) Duration: 7-8 hours.
Today, the trail gradually ascends as you make your way towards Namche Bazaar, the bustling gateway to Everest. Crossing multiple suspension bridges, you'll trek through forests of rhododendron and pine. The path is steep, but you will be rewarded with spectacular views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam as you approach Namche. Overnight at Namche Bazaar.
Day 3 : Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar.
Spend a day in Namche Bazaar to acclimatize to the higher altitude and adjust to the thinner air. You can take a short hike to Syangboche for a better view of the surrounding mountains or visit the Everest View Hotel for panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. This rest day is important for your body to adapt to the altitude and prepare for the upcoming trek.
Day 4 : Trek to Dole (4,200 m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
After your acclimatization day, continue your ascent towards Dole. The trail takes you through beautiful alpine forests, with increasing views of the towering peaks. As you trek higher, the landscape becomes more rugged, with views of Kantega and Thamserku looming over you. Dole is a peaceful settlement offering magnificent views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
Day 5 : Trek to Gokyo (4,790 m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today's trek takes you to Gokyo, one of the most picturesque spots in the Everest region. As you walk, enjoy the stunning scenery, including views of the Ngozumpa Glacier and the turquoise waters of Gokyo Lakes. Upon arrival in Gokyo, relax and take in the beauty of the surrounding peaks, including Cho Oyu. This serene village is a great place for rest before the challenging days ahead.
Day 6 : Trek to Gokyo Ri (5,483 m) and Back to Gokyo via Thangnak (4,500 m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Start early to hike to Gokyo Ri, a peak that offers one of the best panoramic views in the Everest region. From the summit, you can see stunning views of Mount Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu. After soaking in the breathtaking views, descend back to Gokyo. On the way back, stop at Thangnak, a small settlement where you can explore the area before returning to Gokyo.
Day 7 : Cross Chola Pass (5,368 m) and Trek to Dzongla (4,830 m) Duration: 6-9 hours.
Today is a challenging day as you cross the Chola Pass, one of the highest passes in the Everest region. The climb to the pass is steep, but the rewards are immense, with views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks. After crossing the pass, descend to Dzongla, a small village at the foot of the Chola Glacier, where you can rest and acclimatize.
Day 8 : Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,365 m) and Back to Gorak Shep (5,180 m) Duration: 9-10 hours.
A long but incredibly rewarding day awaits you. The trek to Everest Base Camp takes you past the Khumbu Icefall and through rugged terrain. Once at Base Camp, enjoy the breathtaking view of Everest and the surrounding peaks. Afterward, trek back to Gorak Shep, a small settlement at the base of Kala Patthar, where you will spend the night.
Day 9 : Hike Up to Kala Patthar (5,555 m) and Trek Down to Pheriche (4,300 m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Start early for your hike to Kala Patthar, known for its panoramic views of Mount Everest and the surrounding peaks. The sunrise from this vantage point is one of the most iconic views of the trek. Afterward, descend to Pheriche, passing through small Sherpa villages and enjoying the changing landscape as you return to a lower altitude.
Day 10 : Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,441 m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today’s trek takes you back to Namche Bazaar. The descent is relatively easier and quicker, allowing you to retrace your steps through forests and across suspension bridges. Once back in Namche, relax and enjoy the vibrant town, which offers an opportunity to shop for souvenirs or explore the local culture.
Day 11 : Trek to Lukla (2,804 m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Your final trekking day brings you back to Lukla, passing through familiar trails and villages. Enjoy the last leg of the journey as you make your way down through beautiful forests and scenic views. Once in Lukla, you can celebrate the successful completion of your trek with fellow trekkers.
Day 12 : Morning Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu Duration: 30 minutes flight.
After breakfast, board a morning flight back from Lukla to Kathmandu. Enjoy the scenic flight over the Himalayas one last time as you return to the bustling capital, where your incredible adventure comes to a close.
SERVICES
What's Included in Your Trekking Package:
- Airport Transfers: Domestic airport pick-up and drop-off by private car/jeep.
- Meals: Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) throughout the trek.
- Fresh Fruit: Fresh fruit provided every evening after dinner.
- Accommodation: Stay in trekking lodges (Tea Houses) during the trek.
- Permits: All necessary paperwork including Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees.
- Flights: Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu (Ramechhap-Lukla-Ramechhap) flights with private airport transfer and domestic airport taxes.
- Guides and Staff:
- A highly experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed guide, covering their salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters (one porter per two trekkers), with their salary, food, accommodation, and insurance, along with proper safety and walking equipment.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more.
- Medical Support: Comprehensive medical supplies (first aid kit) and arrangements for emergency helicopter services (paid by your travel insurance).
- Equipment: Use of a sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and walking poles (to be returned at the end of the trek).
- T-Shirt: A Sherpa Expedition and Trekking T-shirt.
- Government Taxes & Official Fees: All applicable government taxes and official expenses.
- Trip Achievement Certificate: Certificate awarded upon successful completion of the trek.
- Health Monitoring: Oxygen meter to monitor your pulse, oxygen saturation, and heart rate twice daily, ensuring your health and well-being during the trek.
What's Not Included in Your Trekking Package:
- Meals in Kathmandu: Lunch and dinner while you are in Kathmandu.
- Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu: Costs for hotel stay in Kathmandu before and after the trek.
- Nepal Entry Visa: The visa fee for Nepal, which is easy to obtain on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu:
- $30 USD for a 15-day visa
- $50 USD for a 30-day visa
- $125 USD for a 90-day visa
- Personal Travel and Medical Insurance: Travel and medical insurance for the duration of your trip (highly recommended for coverage).
- International Airfare: Your international flights to and from Nepal.
- Personal Expenses: Any personal purchases such as souvenirs, snacks, or items not specified in the package.
- Beverages: Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, and any extra food or drinks you choose to purchase along the trek and in the tea houses.
- Desserts and Sweets: Items like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding, and other sweet treats.
- Hot Showers and Battery Charging: Charges for hot showers and battery charging at the tea houses along the trek.
- Tips: Tipping for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected in Nepal).
- Excess Baggage: Any baggage weight exceeding the 10 kg limit for the Lukla flight.
Note: If you return early from the trek due to sickness or other issues, the fees for flights, hotels, mountain rooms, food, etc., are nonrefundable. You will need to bear any additional expenses for hotel stays, food, etc., in Kathmandu on your own.
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.
General
- All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
- long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal tops
- wool jacket or pullover
- Sports bras for women and girls
- Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
- windproof and waterproof trousers
- warmer trousers
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
- A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
- Pair of sandals
- 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
- Sock liners
- Light shoes and sneakers
- First Aid Kits and Medicines
- Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
- Blister treatment cream or similar
- Insect / anti-itch ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
- Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
- Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
- Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek
- 4 passport size photos with original passport
- Water bottle & filter
- Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
- Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
- Comfortable trekking poles
- Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
- Power bank and music players
- Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
🏔️ Overview of the Gokyo and Everest Base Camp Trek
The Gokyo and Everest Base Camp trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal, offering a combination of stunning mountain scenery, cultural experiences, and physical challenge. The trek leads you through the Khumbu region, taking you to two incredible destinations: Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp.
🥾 Difficulty Level and Physical Requirements
This trek is considered moderate to challenging. The trek involves steep ascents, high-altitude terrain, and long trekking days, so you should be in good physical condition. A good level of fitness and prior trekking experience will help you prepare for the challenges posed by the high altitude and demanding terrain.
🏨 Accommodation During the Trek
The trek offers a variety of teahouses and lodges along the route, with basic but comfortable facilities. Expect a mix of twin-share rooms, communal bathrooms, and hearty meals. Higher up the trail, the accommodations are more rustic.
🍲 Food and Water Supply
Food along the trek ranges from local Nepali dishes like Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice) to international options such as pasta and pizza. Make sure to drink boiled or treated water to avoid altitude sickness.
🌄 Highlights of the Gokyo and Everest Base Camp Trek
- Gokyo Lakes: A stunning collection of turquoise lakes nestled in the mountains.
- Mount Everest Views: Get up close to the world’s tallest mountain from both Gokyo Ri and Everest Base Camp.
- Tengboche Monastery: Visit one of the oldest and most important monasteries in the region.
- Namche Bazaar: The bustling gateway to the Everest region and a great place for acclimatization.
- Kala Patthar: The best viewpoint for Everest at sunrise.
🏞️ Altitude Considerations and Acclimatization
With high-altitude trekking comes the risk of altitude sickness. It’s important to acclimatize properly. Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters) and Dingboche (4,410 meters) offer good spots to adjust to the altitude before proceeding further. It is recommended to follow the "climb high, sleep low" rule to avoid altitude sickness.
🏞️ Best Time to Go
The best months for the Gokyo and Everest Base Camp trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer clear skies, stable weather, and pleasant temperatures, making the trek both enjoyable and safe.
✈️ How to Get There
- Arrival in Kathmandu: The capital city of Nepal is your starting point.
- Flight to Lukla: A 30-35 minute flight from Kathmandu takes you to Lukla, the gateway to the trek.
- Trekking: From Lukla, you'll begin the journey on foot through beautiful Sherpa villages and scenic mountain landscapes.
🧑🤝🧑 Guides and Porters
Hiring a guide or porter is highly recommended for a smooth and safe trek. Guides provide insights into local culture, assist with navigation, and ensure safety. Porters carry your heavy gear, so you can focus on the trek.
💰 Cost of the Trek
The total cost for the 12-day trek can vary depending on factors such as travel dates, services used, and your level of comfort. On average, the trek can cost between $1,500 - $2,500 USD per person, including permits, flights, guide/porter fees, food, and accommodation.
⚠️ Safety Tips
- Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol and smoking at higher altitudes.
- Slow and steady is key—don’t rush the trek.
- Always carry a headlamp and extra batteries.
- Listen to your body and rest if needed.
🏅 Conclusion
The Gokyo and Everest Base Camp trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that combines the thrill of Everest’s base camp with the serene beauty of Gokyo Lakes. If you’re prepared physically, mentally, and with the right gear, you’ll have an unforgettable trekking experience!
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FAQS
What is the best time to do the Gokyo and Everest Base Camp Trek?
The best times to trek are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is stable, and the skies are clear for panoramic views.
How difficult is the Gokyo and Everest Base Camp Trek?
The trek is considered moderately difficult to challenging due to high altitudes and long trekking days. It requires good physical fitness and prior trekking experience at high altitudes.
Do I need a guide and porter for the trek?
Yes, hiring a guide is recommended for navigation, safety, and cultural insight. A porter can help carry your luggage, making the trek more comfortable.
What is the maximum altitude of the trek?
The highest point on the trek is Kala Patthar at 5,555 meters (18,192 feet), which offers stunning views of Mount Everest and other surrounding peaks.
How long does the trek take?
The Gokyo and Everest Base Camp Trek typically takes 12 days, including acclimatization and rest days.
What are the risks of altitude sickness on this trek?
At high altitudes (above 3,000 meters), there is a risk of altitude sickness. It's essential to acclimatize properly, take rest days, and ascend slowly to minimize the risk.
Do I need special equipment for this trek?
You will need basic trekking gear like comfortable trekking boots, warm clothing, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, and a water bottle. Some equipment can be rented in Kathmandu or Lukla.
Is there internet and mobile signal on the trek?
While some teahouses in major areas like Namche Bazaar and Gorak Shep offer limited Wi-Fi or mobile reception, it’s recommended to disconnect and enjoy the surroundings during your trek.
What kind of food is available on the trek?
You will find a variety of Nepali and international food like Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), noodles, pasta, and tea. High-altitude meals are nutritious but simple.
What is the accommodation like on the trek?
Accommodation is usually in teahouses or lodges. While basic, these offer comfortable rooms with shared bathrooms. As you ascend, the facilities may become more basic, especially in remote areas.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
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Based On 5 Reviews
Daniel Roberts
France
Beautiful Trek with an Experienced Guide
I trekked to Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp with Jangbu Sherpa, and it was an unforgettable experience. Jangbu’s calm demeanor and expertise kept us on track throughout the journey. He was always ready to share his knowledge about the region’s culture and history, which made the trek even more enjoyable. The views were breathtaking, and reaching Everest Base Camp was one of the highlights of my life.
Joshua Mitchell
United Kingdom
A Trek of a Lifetime with the Best Team
This trek was everything I hoped for and more. Pemba Tenzing Sherpa was an outstanding guide who made sure I was well-prepared physically and mentally for the challenges of the Gokyo and Everest Base Camp trek. The views were incredible—reaching both Gokyo and Everest Base Camp was a dream come true. The Sherpa Expedition team handled all logistics perfectly. I can’t wait to return for more trekking adventures with them!
Isabella Green
Norway
Incredible Journey with Exceptional Service
Pasang Tenzing Sherpa was the perfect guide for our Gokyo and Everest Base Camp trek. His deep knowledge of the Himalayas made the journey so much more meaningful. The trek was tough, but the rewards—Gokyo Lakes, Everest Base Camp, and the towering peaks around us—were worth every step. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking organized the entire trek beautifully, with no issues along the way. A fantastic experience!
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