Trek to Everest Base Camp via Gokyo and Cho La Pass

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal. After completing visa formalities and collecting your luggage at the airport, please exit the arrival hall. Your tour leader will be waiting for you just outside the arrival hall and will take you to hotel in Kathmandu. Please look for a placard with your name on it at the exit of the arrival hall. Then depending on the time, you will have time to walk around the hotel and familiarize yourself near hotel.

Meals:
Accommodation: Hotel Vajra
Max Elevation: 1350m/4455ft.

Today is a full-day Kathmandu tour; in which you will explore various UNESCO sites in Kathmandu. We will start our tour with a visit to Pashupatinath, the holiest Hindu temple in Nepal. We will witness the Hindu cremation ceremony at Aryaghat, located on the banks of the Bagmati River. And we will visit Boudhanath, the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal. We can see the rich Tibetan culture at Boudhanath. Similarly, we will end the day’s tour by visiting Kathmandu Durbar Square, the old royal residence of Nepal.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Vajra
Max Elevation: 1350m/4455ft.

Depending on the month of your trip, your flight to Lukla will depart from Kathmandu or Ramechhap Airport. During high season, flights to Lukla usually operate from Ramechhap, which is 130 km east of Kathmandu, requiring a 4-hour drive. If your flight departs from Ramechhap, you will need to wake up at 2:00 AM to start the drive, and the flight itself takes only 15 minutes. Upon arrival in Lukla, you will begin your trek up the Dudhkoshi Valley on a well-marked trail, making your way to Phakading for the night.

Lukla Flights: The approximate dates for Ramechhap Airport operations are March 25 to May and September 20 to November. During other months, flights depart from Kathmandu Airport.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Distance: 3-4 Hrs
Max - Elevation: 2,600m/8,531ft.

From Phakading we cross the river and head up the valley, the path staying close to the river valley and surrounded by beautiful blue pine and rhododendron forests which are very spectacular in the spring months, when the flowers are in bloom. We cross the Dudh Kosi River at Benkar, where there are lovely glimpses of the snow-capped peaks of Kusum Kanguru (6369m) and Thamserku (6623m). From here it is just a short walk to Monjo (2835m), where we arrive in time for lunch. The afternoon walk is a bit more difficult and involves a steep climb to Namche Bazaar. From Monjo we have to take a short walk to the entrance of the national park, before we cross the Dudh Kosi River and reach Jorsale (2805m). The trek continues upwards on generally flat terrain, turning back to the right bank at the confluence of the Bhote Kosi and Dudh Kosi rivers, where we begin the steep climb to Namche Bazaar. After crossing a large and stable suspension bridge over the river, we slowly ascend at a steady pace. There will be some great photographic opportunities as we see peaks like Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse for the first time.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Distance: 6-7 Hrs
Max - Elevation: 3,440m/11,286ft.

Today we will stay in Namche Bazaar for the second night to acclimatize to the weather so that you can watch both the sunrise and sunset from the Everest View Hotel located above the village. It will take 1 hour to reach. The stunning views from this place include a great view of the Khumbu peaks and a great view of Mount Everest. After breakfast, various options are available. Perhaps you can hike to Thami (3810m) through the beautiful Bhote Khola River Valley or visit the National Park Headquarters to see an interesting display of Sherpa lifestyle and culture.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Distance: 3-4 Hrs
Max - Elevation: 3,440m/11,286ft.

Today we have to climb steeply from Namche Bazaar to Kyangjuma village. In Kyangjuma, we can contemplate the magnificent views of Thamserku, Kantega and Ama Dablam. The difficult part of the day will definitely be the ascent of Mong La, a very attractive place hanging on the peak of Khumbila mountain. The medieval historical chorten stands at the center of the settlement of Mong La. In Mong La, we spend some time on the top of Mong La to admire the surrounding snow-capped mountains and valleys while enjoying lunch. The most attractive feature of today's trek is the wealth of flora and fauna, including wild flowers and rhododendrons, that we see along the way. We can also see wild animals such as pheasants, mountain goats and the tiny musk deer. Continuing our trek through the forest, some waterfalls and bridges, we reach Dole.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Distance: 6-7 Hrs
Max - Elevation: 3,680m/12,074ft.

Today is another short day that starts with a steep climb from the small Dole Valley and then gradually climbs up the Dudh Kosi Valley, above the river. The walking is easy, but we will still feel the effects of altitude even on the smallest hills. The desolate alpine scenery with small clumps of scrub juniper is a stark contrast to the snow-capped white peaks and dark blue sky. After two hours, we will reach Luja (4360m), and after another hour of walking we will reach our lodge in Machermo (4465m) where you will spend the evening. After lunch there is the option to cross the rocky moraines at the base of Cajo Ri (6168m) and Machermo Peak (6073m). However, keep your eyes open for this! Three yaks were killed here in 1974 and a Sherpa girl was injured while trying to fight off a hairy, monkey-like intruder who may have been a hungry grizzly bear!

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Distance: 4-5 Hrs
Max - Elevation: 4,470m/14,666ft.

After breakfast, from Machermo we climb to the summit of Chorton from where we enjoy excellent views of the valley below and the northern part of Kangtega, Thamserku and Cho-Oyu at (8153m). As the route passes Chorton, a valley opens up that crosses the mountains and after a short, easy hike we reach Phangka at (4480 m). Phangka is an area where 40 people died in an avalanche in 1995. We descend along the riverbank before starting the climb to the terminal moraine of the Ngojumpa glacier. This is a steep climb on the moraine. After crossing an iron bridge over the river, the route levels off, following the valley to the first lake at 4690 m, called Longpongo, where we have the chance to see llama footprints on the rocks. As we take in the views of the second lake, Taboche Tso, we gaze in awe at the turquoise blue body of water glistening in the sun. Just before the second lake, we reach the third lake, two connected by a flowing stream. The village of Gokyo is neatly situated next to the third lake and with the towering Cho-Oyu mountain in the background creating stunning views, it could be an ideal spot to overdrive our video cameras in this amazing area.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Distance: 4-5 Hrs
Max - Elevation: 4,800m/15,749ft.

Today is our acclimatization day, which can be used for a short hike to acclimatize. If the weather is clear, you can climb Gokyo Ri in the morning. You can get a good view of the entire Khumbu region from the peak of Gokyo Ri. On Everest, the early sunrise is excellent and offers breathtaking views of many other peaks such as Cho-Oyu, Gyachung Kang, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Makulu. Another way to utilize the acclimatization day is to hike 3 km north of Gokyo to see the serene beauty of the fourth lake, Thonak Tso. Depending on your fitness level, you can continue the trek to the fifth lake, Ngojumpa Tso, from where you can take in magnificent views of the longest glacier in the Himalayas.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Distance: 3-4 Hrs
Max - Elevation: 5,357m/17,576ft.

After a day of acclimatization in Gokyo village, you will continue your Everest Base Camp trek today towards Thagnak via Gokyo Lake and Cho La Pass. Continuing this trek, you will come across the Ngojumpa Glacier. There are many ups and downs along the way while the trek is short with moderate elevation gain. The trek through the valley on the eastern side of the glacier is undeniably breathtaking and majestic. As you enter the yak grazing area, the peaks of Tawache and Cholatse will be right beside you. The quiet village of Thagnak, located next to the Ngojumpa Glacier, is well-positioned to help trekkers access the Cho-La High Pass.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Distance: 4-5 Hrs
Max - Elevation: 4,750m/15,585ft.

After spending the night in Thangnak, you will reach the summit of Cho La Pass the next morning through treacherous terrain and glacial mountains. If it is covered with snow, the climb is challenging and dangerous. After a few hours of climbing, you will reach the top of Cho La Pass, where you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Cho La Lake and Mount Cholatse. As you descend, the terrain becomes slippery and dangerous. On this Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Cho La Pass, the scenery is magnificent. After about seven hours of trekking, you will reach Jongla, your final destination for the day.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Distance: 7-8 Hrs
Max - Elevation: 5,420m/17,783ft.

After leaving Dzongla, you will head towards Lobuche, following the moraine that descends towards Chola Lake. The Everest Base Camp trek starts from Dzongla and passes the impressive peaks of Cholatse and Taboche, as well as the small Chola Glacier, passing the small glacial lake. As you head towards Ama Dablam, you will follow the Khumbu Glacier. Along the way, you can see memorial statues of climbers who have died here. Unlike the previous day, the climb to Lobuche will be pleasant, and you will follow the Imja River on your way to your destination. It will take you four hours to reach Lobuche.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Distance: 3-4 Hrs
Max - Elevation: 4,940m/16,208ft.

This day will be special for you as you will reach the Everest Base Camp. After dropping off your luggage at Gorkhesp, you will ascend to the Everest Base Camp. After reaching the Everest Base Camp, you will feel a sense of accomplishment. The trek to the Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lake and Cho La Pass will improve you as a better person as it requires a lot of endurance and relentless physical effort to reach there. From the Everest Base Camp, you will get a chance to witness the breathtaking views of the Khumbu Glacier. After getting enough views from the Everest Base Camp, you will descend to Gorkhesp.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Distance: 7-8 Hrs
Max - Elevation: 5,364m/17,599ft.

Today, the most fascinating part of the Everest Base Camp trek is Kala Patthar. You will climb Kala Patthar early in the morning and witness the golden dawn over Everest and other nearby peaks. The climb from Gorkhesp to Kala Patthar is challenging and will be rewarded with the most beautiful mountain views. The views you will take in will be completely different from anything you have ever seen. From Kala Patthar, you can clearly see the Nuptse, Pumori, Chagatse and Lhotse mountains. Spend some time at the vantage point of Kala Patthar before descending to Gorkshep for breakfast, and then proceed to your final destination for the day, Pheriche.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Distance: 7-8 Hrs
Max - Elevation: 4,371m/14,340ft.

The Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Ri and Cho La passes is filled with amazing natural scenery from Feriche to Namche Bazaar. You will descend to Pangboche and Tengboche, where you can see Buddhist monasteries, leaving the mountain with many memories, challenges, joy and fulfillment. With a sweeping view of the mountain ranges, the route descends along the banks of the Imja River. As you pass through the forests, you can see pheasants, musk deer, mountain goats, etc. You will pass through the charming villages of Shomare, Pangboche, Tengboche and Fungi Thanga on your way to your destination for today and see many prayer flags and chortens. After some more trekking, you will reach Namche Bazaar.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Distance: 6-7 Hrs
Max - Elevation: 3,440m/11,286ft.

After breakfast, you will cross the Hillary Suspension Bridge, descend a challenging path, and pass several surrounding settlements. As you pass through rhododendron forests and open plains, you will be able to catch a glimpse of distant, snow-capped mountains. After traveling through several picturesque villages depicting the way of life in the mountains, the roar of the Dudh Koshi River bids you a fond farewell. When you arrive in Lukla, you will check into a hotel to rest and prepare. Your time in the Khumbu region will likely end this evening. It is time to celebrate as you have succeeded despite all the obstacles.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Distance: 6-7 Hrs
Max - Elevation: 2,800m/9,187ft.

We will wake up early and have breakfast, then prepare for our flight back to Ramechhap Airport. After landing in Ramechhap, you will be transferred back to Kathmandu for a 4-5 hour drive. The rest of the day is free for you to relax.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Vajra
Max - Elevation: 1,350m/4,429ft.

Before departing for Tribhuvan International Airport at the scheduled departure time. This is your last day in Nepal, giving you a final opportunity to take advantage of shopping and enjoy a tour of the cultural metropolis of Kathmandu Valley. We will drop you off at the airport three hours before your flight time.

Meals: Breakfast