everest and gokyo lakes

  • 18 days

  • Lukla/Lukla

  • Moderate To Strenous

  • Spring and Autumn

  • Highlights:

    • Breathtaking view of the tallest peaks in the world from Gokyo-Ri and Kalapathar
    • Acculturation with Sherpa people and experience Buddhism by visiting ancient Gompas and monasteries (Tengboche, Pangboche, etc.).
    • Walk accompanied by stunning vistas of a massive snow-capped mountain range, including Everest.
    • Gokyo Valley, with its lovely scenery and its pristine glacial lakes.
    • UNESCO heritage sites: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bouddhanath, Pashupatinath, Sagarmatha National Park.
       

    Trip Facts:

     

    Destination: Nepal Far North Mid-East Himalayas.

    Starting Point: Lukla on reaching by flight from Kathmandu / Ramechap.

    Ending Point: Lukla for last overnight halt.

    Max. Altitude: Kalapathar Hill (5,644 m) 

    Difficulty: Moderate to Adventurous 

    Best Season: Spring (March to May) autumn (September to December) 

    Accommodation: local best available lodge / hotels in Kathmandu.
    Trek duration: 14 nights and 15 days, Lukla to Lukla.

    Trip duration: 17 nights and 18 days from arrival to final departures.

     

    Introduction:

     

    Gokyo Lake and Everest Base Camp Trekking takes you through a country's stunning least traveled places by main-flow of trekkers. You can experience a complete peace in the harmony of the spectacular mountain range. Surrounds you in the presence of pristine Gokyo Lake and the high Gokyo-Ri Hill, the highest point within Gokyo valley.

    The adventure starts in Kathmandu, Nepal's bustling commercial center, where a quick, thrilling flight will take you to Lukla. Located in the Far North Mid-Eastern Himalayas, within the high Khumbu and Everest region, our wonderful trek begins.

     

    As the journey leads you higher to the renowned and vibrant Namche Bazaar, trekking through picturesque farm villages ornamented with lovely Buddhist structures of Stupa and prayer walls makes the stroll even more enjoyable. Namche is a significant village that is almost the size of a town where hikers may find practically all types of facilities.

     

    The trip begins from Namche after a lovely additional day for acclimatization providing the opportunity to observe the outstanding Sherpa culture and customs. Then, depart for our first beautiful destination, Gokyo Lake. At Gokyo Lake, immerse within the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and turquoise glacial lakes.
    Climb to the top of Gokyo-Ri for a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks facing world’s four highest mountains. 

     

    From the top of Gokyo-Ri at 5,357 m, offers a magnificent panorama of snow peaks, which includes Everest, Lhotse, Cho-Oyu, and Makalu. As well as a series of giant mountain ranges. Enjoy the aerial views of Gokyo valley and the emerald-colored lakes with Nepal Himalayas longest Ngozumpa glaciers.

     

    Leaving Gokyo valley, the route leads you on a secluded trail to the small farm community of Phortse, where only a few trekkers occasionally pass. 

     

    From here, our journey will take you to Pangboche, where you will join the main trekking routes to the Everest base camp. As the experience progresses, you will stay in charming locations like Dingboche and Lobuche on your way to our ultimate goal of Everest base camp.

     

    Your next adventure brings you to Kalapathar, which is the highest point of the journey. After accomplishing the trek, you’ll return on a long descent with some ascents to arrive in Lukla for one last stop in the Everest region before taking a flight back to Kathmandu.

Itinerary

  • DAY 1
    Welcome to Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 feet) and transfer to hotel

    On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our staff will receive and transfer you to the hotel. After checking into your lovely rooms, and getting refreshed after jet lag, join in with other fellow trekkers for a group briefing. You’ll be briefed about useful information regarding dos and don'ts on trek, as well local culture and custom. 

    In the evening participate in a group welcome dinner in an authentic Nepalese restaurant with an interesting folk program.


  • DAY 2
    Fly to Lukla (2, 820 m) and trek to Phakding village (2,645 m) - 04 hrs

    Take a 35-minute early-morning flight to Lukla and enjoy the scenic view of Himalayan peaks. Lukla, the gateway to Everest Base Camp, is a bustling town with Tenzing Hillary Airport. This airport's popularity stems from its unique airstrip at a higher elevation.

     

    After prepping well for the trek, walk down through Sherpa villages. Ascending further up from Tarhe Khola, you can have a superb view of Kusum-Kangru at (6,369 m).
    Then, crossing a short suspension bridge, we arrive at Ghat village. From here short hour of gradual walk brings to Phakding village for an overnight stop near the Dudh-Kosi River. Enjoy the comfort of a nice local lodge with warm traditional hospitality of the Sherpa. 


  • DAY 3
    Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m / 11, 350 feet) - 06 hrs

    After breakfast, walk from Phakding on a nice trail with short up and down.
    Reaching Benkar village, you’ll get to see a magnificent view of Mt. Thamserku. Then
    crossing a long suspension bridge above Dudh Koshi River, walk proceeds to lovely Monjo village, and towards the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park.

     

    Cross the bridge over Dudh Koshi River that leads to Jorsale, the last village before Namche Bazaar.  The route from here turns cooler and damp in the shades of the deep forest. Cross another high bridge to reach Namche Bazaar.  

     

    Trek on a scenic winding uphill path with views of Kongde, Kusum-Kangru, and
    Mt. Everest and Lhotse (depending upon a clear day). The trail takes you into a nice path lined with tree lines of rhododendron, magnolia, oaks, and pines to reach Namche Bazaar. The capital of Khumbu and Sherpa’s of Khumbu and Everest region, a nice large town provides various facilities.


  • DAY 4
    Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar

    Today, rest day for acclimatization in Namche, enjoy short hike for breathtaking scenery of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Amadablam. You can choose to walk uphill to the Sagarmatha National Park headquarters to refresh and soak in nature. 

    Alternatively, spend the day learning the local culture including flora / fauna of the region visiting the Sagarmatha National Park museum. You can even take an energetic, hike to Khumjung and Khunde villages, which is located on a glacial valley. Have your lunch at Khumjung and Khunde and return to Namche for the night.


  • DAY 5
    Trek to Dole (4,100 m) - 06 hrs

    Take an early morning trek on a wide scenic trail facing the mind-boggling views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Amadablam, Thamserku, and Kwangde-Ri peaks.
    From a small place of Kyanjinma, climb to Mong hill, a picturesque spot with few tea houses and lodges.

    The trail from here descends downhill to Phortse-Tenga, a peaceful spot within a forested area as well as a few good lodges on the way to Gokyo Lake. 

    Spend a brief moment here for lunch break, devouring delicious meals in one of the eateries. After lunch continue your walk upward alpine chill forest towards the gorge. From here, walk further to Dole for an overnight stay.   


  • DAY 6
    Trek to Machhermo (4,470 m) - 04 hrs

    The trek begins with a short climb to a ridge and then on a pleasant gradual path to Lhabarma Kharka at 4,325 m and Luza at 4,390 m. Walking along the top of the boulder ridge, you’ll get to see the small settlement of Machhermo, summoning you down. 

    From the top enjoy grand vista of world 6th high Mt. Cho-Oyu towards north direction with series of snow peaks.

    Gradually descend from the moraines and patchy grassland to Machhermo. Spend your leisurely afternoon exploring the valley facing views of towering peaks. Overnight stay at Machhermo in a nice local lodge.  


  • DAY 7
    Trek to Gokyo Lake 4,800 m - 04 hrs

    Today, we will travel to the glacial lakes of Gokyo via a very scenic trail to Pangka 4,545 m. From here descend slightly via one of the glacial-fed rivers that flow down the west side of Ngozumpa Glacier. Climb a steep rocky incline into the ablation valley by the glacier's side. Then walk across the first lake, soon followed by the second lake, and finally reaching the third lake known as Dudh Pokhari or Gokyo Lake.

    Take an ample time to explore the breathtaking scenery with the peaks of Mt. Cho Oyu and Gyachung Kang. Soak the serenity on the bank of the river reflecting the mountains in its emerald green waters. Spend your night in one of the lodges located on the Northern bank of Gokyo at above 4,790 meters high.


  • DAY 8
    Climb Gokyo-Ri (5,357m) and walk to Na (4,230 m) or beyond - 04 hrs

    Wake up early in the morning to ascend high ridge of Gokyo-Ri, one of the highlight of the trip. The 2 hours worthwhile climb rewards you with astounding views of world’s four highest peaks: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu with Nepal’s longest Ngozumpa glacier beneath Gokyo valley and lakes. Includes views of Gyachung Kang, Cholatse and Tawache to Mt. Ama Dablam. 

    After exploring this mountain paradise descend down on the same route for a few hours turning east. Further descend to the village of Na, which is located at the foot of the Ngozumpa glacier. 


  • DAY 9
    Trek to Phortse village 2,880 m high - 04 hrs

    The trek leads to the sleepy village of Phortse on the opposite side of the Dudh Kosi valley. The descent is straightforward, following the East side of the valley. Enjoy the descent admiring the view of Khumbu peaks before arriving at Phortse. 

    Further walk down through the forest with a pop of Rhododendrons and pines reaching a remote and quant farm village of Phortse. 


  • DAY 10
    Trek to Dingboche (4,340 m) via Pangboche (3,900 m) - 06 hrs

    Enjoy the magnificent Amadablam vistas in the initial pathway, and then a twisting, slow ascent will take you to Pangboche monastery. One of the oldest monasteries around Khumbu region with the backdrop of the Himalayas. 

    Pangboche, the final permanent village on the way to Everest base camp, is reached after a short distance of walking. Visit its old monastery surrounded by juniper trees of upper Pangboche.

    From Pangboche, a short ascent leads to Somare, a small picturesque valley with stunning views of Amadablam. Having lunch break while admiring the scenery,
    a gradual ascent from here leads to a small bridge. Crossing the bridge, yet another climb leads to the picturesque Imjatse valley and at Dingboche settlement, where you spend the night. Right beneath Ama Dablam North Face with views of Island Peak towards east direction. 


  • DAY 11
    Trek to Lobuche (4,960 m) - 05 hrs

    After a restful night at Dingboche, make the short ascent to a ridge adorned in Buddhist stupas festooned with colorful flags. Take in the magnificent vistas of peaks, including Island Peak at the far end of Imjatse valley.

    From here, a pleasant uphill path winds through a beautiful grassy meadow and goes to Thugla, a small settlement with a few small lodges and shops. Stop for possible lunch break, where gigantic Khumbu glacier ends melting into a raging river.

    Afternoon walk ascend a rocky ridge for less than an hour to the top of Thugla Pass.
    A flat location with numerous stone memorials of climbers who lost their lives while attempting to reach Mount Everest and adjacent summits.

    Enjoy an hour-long stroll down a pleasant, gradual trail to Lobuche, for overnight halt facing grand views of Nuptse peak.


  • DAY 12
    Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) via Gorakshep (5,180 m) - 06 hrs

    Start the morning, having early breakfast and initiate the walk to our final highlight destination on leaving Lobuche. Enjoy a pleasant walk on a wide valley and a brief climb, as the route follows to an interesting meteorological station. If you are keen, you can visit the Glass Pyramid at meteorological stations, a joint project of Italian and Nepalese Government scientists.

    The hike continues above moraine and ice above Khumbu glacier and then a short descent reaching a large open field at Gorakshep. After a brief rest stop, we will continue toward our destination at Everest base camp. The route takes you across rocks and moraines near the impressive Khumbu glaciers. 

    A gradual stroll from here will take you to Everest Base Camp, which is encircled by the magnificent peaks of Nuptse, Lhotse, and Changtse filled with numerous tented camps during the peak mountaineering season. Enjoying a dramatic scenery with close look of mighty Khumbu Ice Fall. Walk back on the same route to Gorakshep and spend the night in one of its lovely simple lodges.


  • DAY 13
    Ascend Kalapathar (5,644 m) and to Pangboche (3,900 m) - 6 hrs

    Wake up early in the morning and prepare yourself for today’s steep climb to Kalapathar. A strenuous haul to reach the highest point of the adventure at 5,644 m / 18, 517 feet high. Of all the hard work rewards with a stunning vista of the high mountain range that encircles this high hill with the closest views of Mt. Everest.

    After enjoying a magnificent beautiful view, descend to Gorakshep and continue hiking on the same trail down to Lobuche until you reach Thugla. 

    From Thugla, the journey continues downhill to the Pheriche valley's windswept flat terrain. Stopping at Pheriche for lunch and then proceed to the end of the valley, making a quick descent to a river. Ascend to the top of the ridge, which houses a beautiful stupa, and then drop past Somare to arrive at our overnight stop in Pangboche village.


  • DAY 14
    Trek to Namche Bazaar via Tengboche - 06 hrs

    Today, descend from Pangboche to a bridge and then ascend through a gorgeous evergreen forest with tall rhododendron, pine, birch, and fir trees to reach Tengboche. Take a short visit to the impressive monastery at Tengboche. A beautiful scenic place where once a year a colorful religious festival takes place called ‘Mani Rimdu’.
    It falls in the month of October or early week of November, as per Buddhist lunar calendar.

    From Tengboche descend to Imjatse River, then climb a short distance to the villages of Lobesa and Shanasa. From there, continue walking to Kyanjinma, a small settlement with a few nice lodges facing views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, and other peaks. Then, take a nice, wide path downhill to Namche Bazaar for an overnight night halt.


  • DAY 15
    Trek to Lukla - 06 hrs

    Following a pleasant time immersed in the coherence of the Sherpa culture of the area and magnificent vistas, descend downhill to a river reaching Sagarmatha National Park post. Continue your walk to Monjo village and then walk along the Dudh Kosi River all the way to Phakding village. You’ll venture past the small villages of Ghat and Tade-Kosi, and finally, ascend an hour to Lukla. 

     

    At Lukla check into a nice lodge for last final overnight around Khumbu and Everest region.


  • DAY 16
    Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu and transfer to hotel

    After final breakfast in Lukla, transfer to the Tenzing and Hillary Airport terminal.
    The scenic flight with breathtaking mountain vistas will bring you back to Kathmandu. Returning to your respective hotel, spend your afternoon in Kathmandu as per your pursuit.


  • DAY 17
    Free day in Kathmandu

    Today, a full day for either rest or explore the historical places of Kathmandu. Christened as the city of temples, Kathmandu has a lot to offer in terms of history, architecture, tradition, and religion. Visit open air museums or shops because all you have to take back is only memories and souvenirs.


  • DAY 18
    Final Departure

    After the last breakfast in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to the airport for final departure. Depending upon your time schedule for international flight to respective countries, after an amazing adventure on Everest & Gokyo Lake Trekking.