Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes

5.0

Among the many trekking options in Nepal, Everest via Gokyo Lakes is truly special. It offers stunning views of the highest peaks and a chance to explore beautiful, remote villages. If you want a trek that combines incredible scenery with a real taste of local culture, the Gokyo route is the perfect choice.

At a Glance
Location

Everest Base Camp

Duration

14 Days

Trip Difficulty

Easy

Activities

Trekking

Accommodation

Lodges

Meals

All included except in Kathmandu

Group size

Min. 2 Pax

Best time

Spring and Autumn

Max. Altitude

5350m.

The Everest region, renowned for its towering peaks, offers trekkers some of the most stunning vistas of 8,000-meter and 7,000-meter mountains in the world. This less-traveled path provides a unique opportunity to experience not only dramatic landscapes but also the essence of local Sherpa culture. As you trek, you’ll encounter icy rivers, rocky glacier debris, and the mesmerizing turquoise waters of the Gokyo Lakes. You can enjoy fewer crowds compared to more popular routes.

The journey begins from Kathmandu to Ramechhap via bus and then a flight to Lukla, quickly gaining altitude and placing trekkers at the foot of the towering peaks. From Lukla, the trail leads to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant and bustling capital of the Sherpa region. Namche is a small town with modern conveniences such as internet, stores, and a variety of dining options. It offers a blend of contemporary amenities and traditional Sherpa hospitality.

As you continue along the trail, the path gradually ascends toward the Gokyo Lakes. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to explore ancient Buddhist monasteries, which provide a glimpse into the rich cultural and spiritual life of the Sherpa community. One of the trek’s major highlights is the climb to Gokyo Peak. This ascent rewards you with panoramic views of Everest and its neighboring peaks. The journey then returns you to Lukla.

It’s important to note that during the Spring and Autumn seasons, flights to Lukla may be rerouted through Ramechhap due to weather conditions. This may add an extra day to your trek. However, this adjustment provides an additional opportunity to enjoy the beauty and diversity of the region before completing your adventure.

Major Highlights of Everest Base Camp

  • Explore the vibrant towns of Namche and Khumjung, rich in Sherpa culture and tradition.
  • Witness traditional yak herding, a staple of life in the Himalayas.
  • Traverse breathtaking alpine terrain with diverse flora and fauna.
  • Enjoy spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and other towering peaks.
  • Hike to the summit of Gokyo Ri for panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys
  • Visit schools and hospitals funded by Sir Edmund Hillary
  • Fly into the world’s highest-altitude airport in Lukla.
  • Experience the spiritual atmosphere at Tengboche Monastery and participate in a Buddhist ceremony
Itinerary

We begin our journey with a transfer from Kathmandu to Ramechhap. You can choose between a local bus or a private vehicle for the journey. Along the way, you’ll pass through picturesque landscapes, giving you a glimpse of the natural beauty that Nepal has to offer. Upon arrival in Ramechhap, you’ll stay in a cozy lodge for the night.

We will take an early flight from Ramechhap to Lukla marking the start of our trek. In Lukla, you’ll meet your porter team, who will assist you throughout your journey. The trek begins with a walk through Sherpa country, where you’ll meet the first Buddhist monasteries in Chuplung. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, passing barley and wheat fields. After about four hours of trekking, you’ll reach Phakding. You’ll spend the night in a mountain hotel.
Trekking: 4 hours
Elevation: ↑ 50m, ↓ 240m

Today’s trek takes you along the Dudh Kosi to Jorsale (2800m). You’ll cross the river on a suspension bridge and then begin a rapid ascent of 600 meters to Namche Bazaar. This bustling Sherpa town is a hub of activity with numerous shops, a post office, and a bank. You can visit a small monastery and explore the market, which offers Tibetan and Chinese products brought over the Nang Pa La pass by yak. You’ll spend the night in a comfortable lodge.
Trekking: 6 hours
Elevation: ↑ 930m, ↓ 100m

Today is an acclimatization day, which is necessary for adjusting to the higher altitudes. You’ll make a steep ascent to the beautiful village of Khumjung, which is twinned with Khunde. You’ll stay in a rustic lodge that offers the best views of high peaks such as Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserkhu. Take a walk around the large Sherpa town, where Sir Edmund Hillary established a school and a hospital, contributing significantly to the local community.
Trekking: 1.5 hours
Elevation: ↑ 320m

The route takes you along the slopes of Khumbila, a mountain revered by the Sherpas. You’ll pass through the village of Mong before descending in switchbacks to the Dudh Khosi River and finally reach Phortse Tenga. You’ll spend the night in a lodge.
Trekking: 4 hours
Elevation: ↑ 135m, ↓ 220m

Your trek continues with an ascent through forests of rhododendrons and pines, passing summer yak herder camps. The trail becomes steeper as you approach Dole, but the scenery keeps you motivated. After about four hours of trekking, you’ll reach Luza, where you’ll stay overnight.
Trekking: 4 hours
Elevation: ↑ 765m, ↓ 50m

Today, the journey takes you along the river to the beautiful small village of Machhermo. From there, the trail climbs a ridge and descends along the moraine of the Ngozuma Glacier. A steep climb brings you to the first Gokyo Lake, and the trail flattens out as you continue to the second and third lakes. The views are spectacular, and you’ll spend the night in Gokyo.
Trekking: 4 hours
Elevation: ↑ 472m, ↓ 112m

Today, we will hike up to Gokyo Ri (5350m) for breathtaking views of Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, and Everest. After enjoying the stunning panoramas, you’ll descend to the village of Na. The descent offers a different perspective of the landscape and is equally enjoyable.
Trekking: 5.5 hours
Elevation: ↑ 600m, ↓ 910m

We will retrace our steps back to Phortse Tenga. This village is off the main trekking circuit and therefore represents a more authentic Sherpa village. After trekking for about four hours, we will arrive at Phortse Tenga, where we will spend the night.
Trekking: 4 hours
Elevation: ↓ 765m

Today, we follow the Imja Khola on a relatively short and gentle trek to Pangboche. The Imja Khola is a tributary of the Dudh Kosi in Nepal, draining the slopes of Mount Everest. We will spend the night in Pangboche.
Trekking: 3 hours
Elevation: ↑ 150m, ↓ 35m

After crossing the Imja Khola, we will descend and then ascend to reach Tengboche. This village is home to the most renowned monastery in the Khumbu region. The views of Ama Dablam from here are truly magnificent. You’ll be staying overnight in Tengboche.
Trekking: 4 hours
Elevation: ↑ 150m, ↓ 150m

We will descend to Namche Bazaar, passing through Khumjung once again. The trail offers a mixture of descents and ascents, making for an engaging trek. You will spend the night in Namche.
Trekking: 6 hours
Elevation: ↑ 260m, ↓ 680m

Your trek follows the Dudh Koshi River, descending to Ghat (2500m) before a final ascent to Lukla. It will be a long day of trekking, but the beautiful scenery and the sense of accomplishment will make it worthwhile. You will spend your last night in Lukla.
Trekking: 7 hours
Elevation: ↑ 300m, ↓ 940m

Our adventure will come to an end with a flight from Lukla to Ramechhap, followed by a four-hour drive back to Kathmandu. While returning to the bustling city, you can reflect on your incredible journey and carry unforgettable memories of the Himalayas with you.

Customize your Trek with GST

Glacier Safari Trek offers customization options to improve your trekking experience. Choose our Eco category for a more minimalist approach, where you trek without a porter, allowing for a more self-sufficient adventure. Alternatively, opt for our Grand Comfort category, which provides upgraded accommodation and additional comforts. We provide a more luxurious and relaxing trek. For more details or to book your preferred category, please contact us.

Cost Includes
  • English-speaking guide
  • Porter (1 for 2 trekkers)
  • Accommodation during the trek
  • Food during the trek
  • Entry fees for National Parks and registration with TIMS
  • Insurance for Nepali staff
  • Ramechhap/Lukla round trip
  • KTM/Ramechhap car transfer round trip
Cost Excludes
  • Personal insurance with mountain rescue
  • Nepal visa
  • All personal expenses: hot shower, tips, charging electronic devices, etc.
  • Stay in Kathmandu (on demand)
  • Entry fees for cultural sites (monasteries, etc.)
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€1,734

With domestic flights.

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FAQs

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for trekkers participating in any mountain trek or tour. It is essential for covering emergencies like helicopter rescues, medical evacuations, and repatriation expenses. A comprehensive insurance policy offers protection against personal injury, illness, and other unexpected issues, allowing you to enjoy your trek with peace of mind. We highly recommend getting a strong travel insurance plan to guarantee full coverage and support throughout your journey.

The trek is categorized as challenging due to the high altitude and difficult terrain. Trekkers should be in good physical condition and familiarized to the altitude, as the trek involves 6-8 hours of hiking per day.

The best times for the trek are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). Spring offers warmer temperatures and beautiful blooming landscapes, while Autumn offers clear skies, dry trails, and fewer crowds. Both seasons provide excellent trekking conditions. In Spring, you can enjoy lush greenery, while Autumn features crisp views and vibrant fall colors.

For trekking in the Everest region, you need the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit. If you plan to trek via the Jiri route, you’ll also need the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit. These permits help protect the unique environment and support local communities in the region

For trekking in Nepal, you should bring essentials like thermal tops, a wool jacket, a waterproof windcheater, trekking pants, a down jacket, gloves, and hiking socks. Additional items include a sleeping bag, trekking poles, a day bag, sunglasses, and a sun hat. Most of these items can be easily purchased in Kathmandu, which has many shops catering to trekkers’ needs. If you don't have a down jacket or sleeping bag, these will be provided by the trekking company.