Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake and Cho La Pass
Overview
The Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake and Cho La Pass Trek is an extraordinary journey through the heart of the Khumbu region, combining the iconic Everest Base Camp with the breathtaking Gokyo Lakes and the exhilarating Cho La Pass (5,420m). This trek is designed for adventurers who seek a more diverse and challenging alternative to the traditional Everest Base Camp route, offering mesmerizing Himalayan landscapes, rich Sherpa culture, and a thrilling high-altitude experience.
The adventure begins in Kathmandu, where you explore the city’s cultural and historical landmarks before flying to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, passing through lush forests, picturesque Sherpa villages, and vibrant Buddhist monasteries. The journey continues to Namche Bazaar (3,440m), the bustling heart of the Khumbu, where trekkers acclimatize while enjoying stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
Beyond Namche, the trail leads through Tengboche Monastery, offering panoramic Himalayan views, before ascending through Dingboche and Lobuche. The highlight of the first phase is reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364m), where climbers prepare for their ascent of the world’s highest peak. An early morning climb to Kala Patthar (5,545m) provides one of the most stunning sunrise views of Mount Everest and its surrounding peaks.
The second phase of the trek introduces an exciting challenge—crossing the Cho La Pass, a thrilling high-altitude pass that leads into the Gokyo Valley. Here, trekkers are rewarded with the spectacular Gokyo Lakes, a series of six turquoise glacial lakes, and an ascent of Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for one of the best panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, and Lhotse.
The return journey follows a different route, completing a scenic circuit that showcases the diverse beauty of the Everest region. This trek demands physical endurance and proper acclimatization, but every step is rewarded with breathtaking views, rich cultural experiences, and the ultimate sense of adventure in the Himalayas.
Short Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Day 3: Fly to Lukla (2,860 m) & Trek to Phakding (2,610 m) – 8 km, +250 m
Day 4: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) – 10-12 km, +830 m
Day 5: Acclimatization Day – Visit Everest View Hotel and Khumjung
Day 6: Trek to Tengboche (3,860 m) – 10 km, +420 m
Day 7: Trek to Dingboche (4,410 m) – 12 km, +550 m
Day 8: Acclimatization Day – Hike to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083 m)
Day 9: Trek to Lobuche (4,910 m) – 8 km, +500 m
Day 10: Trek to Gorak Shep (5,164 m) & Visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) – 15-16 km, +500 m to Gorak Shep, +200 m to Base Camp
Day 11: Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) & Trek to Dzongla (4,830 m) – 14 km, +380 m to Kala Patthar, -715 m
Day 12: Cross Cho La Pass (5,420 m) & Descend to Thangnak (4,700 m) – 12-13 km, +590 m, -720 m
Day 13: Trek to Gokyo (4,790 m) & Explore Gokyo Lakes – 6 km, +90 m
Day 14: Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) & Trek to Machhermo (4,470 m) – 10-12 km, +560 m, -890 m
Day 15: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m) – 12-14 km, -1,030 m
Day 16: Trek to Lukla (2,860 m) – 14-16 km, -580 m
Day 17: Fly Back to Kathmandu
Day 18: Leisure Day in Kathmandu
Day 19: Departure from Kathmandu
Trip Highlights
✔ Trek to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, the most famous viewpoint of Mount Everest.
✔ Cross the thrilling Cho La Pass (5,420m), a challenging and rewarding high-altitude pass.
✔ Explore the pristine Gokyo Lakes, a series of six stunning glacial lakes.
✔ Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for one of the best panoramic views of the Himalayas.
✔ Immerse yourself in Sherpa culture, visiting ancient monasteries and traditional villages.
✔ Experience breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Ama Dablam.
✔ Walk through the lush rhododendron forests and picturesque valleys of the Khumbu region.
✔ Thrilling flight to and from Lukla, one of the most adventurous airstrips in the world.
Trip Facts
- Trek Duration: 19 Days (including arrival and departure)
- Trekking Region: Everest (Khumbu) Region
- Trek Difficulty: Strenuous
- Maximum Altitude: 5,545m (Kala Patthar)
- Best Seasons: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November)
- Accommodation: Tea Houses/Lodges
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek
Why Choose This Trek?
✔ Experience the best of the Everest region, combining the iconic Everest Base Camp with the stunning Gokyo Lakes and the thrilling Cho La Pass.
✔ Enjoy diverse landscapes, from lush forests and riverside trails to glaciers and high passes.
✔ Witness breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Ama Dablam.
✔ Cross the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420m) for a true adventure experience.
✔ Explore Sherpa culture, visiting ancient monasteries and traditional villages.
✔ Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for one of the best views in the Himalayas.
✔ Acclimatization days ensure a safer trekking experience, allowing you to enjoy the journey fully.
✔ Complete an exciting circuit, returning via a different route to maximize exploration.
Why Choose Mountain King Treks?
✔ More than 35 years of experience in adventure travel and tourism in Nepal.
✔ Founded by Govinda Prasad Sapkota, a lifelong promoter of adventure tourism in Nepal.
✔ Unmatched service and hospitality, ensuring every trekker’s comfort and safety.
✔ Highly trained, professional, and friendly trekking guides and support staff.
✔ Commitment to responsible tourism, ensuring eco-friendly trekking practices.
✔ Small group sizes for personalized attention and a better experience.
✔ Excellent safety measures and emergency support, including satellite communication.
✔ Strong local connections and knowledge, offering an authentic and immersive Himalayan experience.
✔ A proven track record of satisfied clients, with outstanding reviews and recommendations.
Important Note for Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake and Cho La Pass Trek
- High Altitude Awareness: This trek involves significant elevation gains, including the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420m) and Kala Patthar (5,545m). It is essential to stay vigilant about the symptoms of Altitude Sickness. Proper acclimatization is crucial, and it’s important to listen to your body. Our itinerary is designed with sufficient acclimatization days to help reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
- Physical Preparation: The trek includes long days of walking, often over rough, uneven terrain. The days can range from 5 to 8 hours of trekking. Being in good physical condition and prepared for strenuous hiking will ensure you have a more enjoyable and safe experience.
- Weather Conditions: The weather in the Everest region is unpredictable. While the trekking season (spring and autumn) offers relatively stable weather, temperatures at higher altitudes can drop below freezing, especially at night. Be prepared for cold weather, especially around Gokyo Lake, Everest Base Camp, and Cho La Pass.
- Trekking Gear: Ensure that you have appropriate clothing and gear for high-altitude trekking, including layered clothing, warm jackets, good-quality trekking boots, and a sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures. Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a good camera for the breathtaking views.
- Cho La Pass Crossing: Crossing the Cho La Pass can be physically demanding and technically challenging. It involves a steep ascent and sometimes icy sections, especially in the winter months. A steady pace, good weather, and guidance from an experienced trekking guide are essential for crossing the pass safely.
- Local Culture: Respect the local customs and traditions of the Sherpa communities. These villages are rich in Buddhist culture, and your guide will inform you about local customs and etiquette. Be mindful of sacred places like monasteries and stupas along the trail.
- Flight to Lukla: The Lukla flight is known for its unpredictable schedule due to weather conditions. We recommend having flexibility in your travel plans in case of delays, as flights to and from Lukla are often canceled or rescheduled due to weather changes.
- Travel Insurance: We strongly advise you to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, emergency evacuation, and medical costs. This is particularly important for remote areas like the Everest region.
- Support Team: Our team includes experienced guides, porters, and kitchen staff who will ensure that you have everything you need along the way. They will also provide emergency support if needed.
Checklist
Clothing:
✔ Insulated jacket
✔ Base layers
✔ Trekking pants
✔ Thermal gloves and socks
✔ Waterproof jacket and pants
Gear:
✔ Trekking poles
✔ Sleeping bag (-20°C rating)
✔ Headlamp with extra batteries
✔ Sunglasses and sunscreen
Miscellaneous:
✔ Personal first aid kit
✔ Reusable water bottle
✔ Energy snacks
✔ Travel insurance
Included/Exclude
Includes
- All ground transportation by private vehicle.
- Accommodation in Kathmandu for 4 nights on a twin-sharing basis with bed and breakfast.
- Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu, including monument entry fees.
- Professional English-speaking tour guide during the Kathmandu city tour.
- Domestic flights (Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu).
- Trekking permits (TIMS & Sagarmatha National Park entry).
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality entry fees.
- Experienced, professional, and friendly trekking guide.
- Porter service to carry your duffel bag (1 porter for every 2 trekkers).
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
- Fresh fruits served every evening after dinner.
- Basic first aid kit for emergency use.
- Farewell dinner with a traditional cultural performance in Kathmandu.
- All expenses for guides and porters, including their meals, accommodation, insurance, and salaries.
- All applicable government taxes and service charges.
- International flights and Nepal visa fees.
- Travel insurance (mandatory, covering high-altitude trekking).
- Personal trekking equipment (sleeping bag, trekking poles, etc.).
- Personal expenses, including beverages, snacks, souvenirs, Wi-Fi, battery charging, hot showers, and bottled water.
- Tips for guides, porters, and trekking staff.
- Extra accommodation in Kathmandu in case of early return from the trek or delayed departure.
- Anything not mentioned in the "Includes" section.
Tour Plan
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be welcomed by a representative from Mountain King Treks. After a short introduction and transfer, you will be taken to your hotel in Kathmandu. The remainder of the day is free to rest after your flight. In the evening, you can relax or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel.
Today, you will explore the rich cultural heritage of Kathmandu. A guided sightseeing tour will include visits to the famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites:
- Kathmandu Durbar Square, a beautiful complex of palaces, temples, and shrines
- Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), a spiritual site offering a panoramic view of the city
- Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples in Nepal
- Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world In the afternoon, you’ll attend a pre-trek briefing and receive the necessary equipment and information. The evening is free for leisure and last-minute preparations.
After breakfast, you will take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860m), a small mountain airstrip. The flight offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival in Lukla, your trek begins with a descent to the Dudh Koshi River. From there, you will follow a relatively easy trail through small Sherpa villages and pine forests, eventually arriving at Phakding (2,610m). This is a great place to rest and prepare for the next day’s trek.
Distance: 7 km
Walking Hours: 3–4 hours
Elevation Gain: 2,610m
Today’s trek takes you to Namche Bazaar (3,440m), the gateway to the Everest region. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, and you will cross several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Bridge. After crossing the river, you will begin a steady climb through lush forests of rhododendron and pine, passing small villages along the way. The first views of Mount Everest (8,848m) and Ama Dablam (6,812m) appear as you approach Namche Bazaar, a bustling Sherpa town with a market, cafes, and local shops.
Distance: 11–12 km
Walking Hours: 6–7 hours
Elevation Gain: 3,440m
To help your body adjust to the higher altitude, today is an acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar. You will take a short hike to the Everest View Hotel, which offers stunning views of Mount Everest and other peaks such as Lhotse and Ama Dablam. Afterward, you will continue to the Khumjung Village, home to the famous Khumjung Monastery. The village is also known for its school funded by Sir Edmund Hillary. Afterward, return to Namche Bazaar for the night.
Distance: 5 km
Walking Hours: 3–4 hours
Elevation: 3,440m
After breakfast, you’ll begin your trek toward Tengboche (3,860m). The trail descends from Namche Bazaar through dense forests of rhododendron, juniper, and pine, crossing the Dudh Koshi River before ascending again to Tengboche. The highlight of the day is reaching Tengboche Monastery, the largest Buddhist monastery in the Khumbu region. From here, enjoy fantastic views of Ama Dablam and other surrounding peaks.
Distance: 10 km
Walking Hours: 5–6 hours
Elevation Gain: 3,860m
Today’s trek continues through the alpine forest to the village of Dingboche (4,410m). The trail passes through the village of Pangboche, home to a small monastery, before continuing upwards along a ridge offering excellent views of Ama Dablam and other peaks. Dingboche is located in the beautiful Imja Valley, and it provides a fantastic place to rest and acclimatize.
Distance: 12 km
Walking Hours: 5–6 hours
Elevation Gain: 4,410m
Another acclimatization day is scheduled for today. You will hike to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083m), which offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Lhotse. The hike is a great way to adjust to the altitude while soaking in stunning Himalayan scenery. After spending some time enjoying the views, return to Dingboche for the night.
Distance: 5 km
Walking Hours: 3–4 hours
Elevation Gain: 5,083m
Today, you will trek to Lobuche (4,910m), passing through rugged terrain and moraines. You will pass the Thukla Pass, where there is a memorial for climbers who have lost their lives on Everest. From here, you will continue to Lobuche, where you will rest for the night.
Distance: 8 km
Walking Hours: 5–6 hours
Elevation Gain: 4,910m
Today, you will trek to Gorak Shep (5,164m), the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. After arriving at Gorak Shep, you will continue your trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m), the ultimate goal for many trekkers. This is an extraordinary experience, as you stand at the foot of Mount Everest and enjoy breathtaking views of the Khumbu Icefall. After spending time at Base Camp, return to Gorak Shep for the night.
Distance: 15 km
Walking Hours: 7–8 hours
Elevation Gain: 5,364m (Base Camp)
Early in the morning, you will hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m), the best viewpoint for seeing Mount Everest and other towering peaks, including Lhotse and Nuptse. After enjoying the spectacular sunrise view, you will descend back to Gorak Shep and then continue trekking to Dzongla (4,830m), a small village nestled beneath the towering peaks.
Distance: 10 km
Walking Hours: 6–7 hours
Elevation Gain: 5,545m (Kala Patthar)
Today, you will cross the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420m), which is one of the most difficult sections of the trek. The climb involves rocky terrain and icy conditions, but the panoramic views of the surrounding peaks are worth the effort. After crossing the pass, you will descend to Thangnak (4,700m), where you will spend the night.
Distance: 10–12 km
Walking Hours: 7–8 hours
Elevation Gain: 5,420m (Cho La Pass)
After a long day yesterday, today’s trek takes you to Gokyo (4,790m), a beautiful settlement near the famous Gokyo Lakes. The crystal-clear lakes are surrounded by towering peaks, and it’s a peaceful place to rest. You will also have time to explore the lakes and enjoy the serene environment.
Distance: 6–7 km
Walking Hours: 4–5 hours
Elevation Gain: 4,790m
In the morning, you will hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m), a viewpoint offering stunning panoramic views of Mount Everest, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. After enjoying the incredible vistas, you will descend to Machhermo (4,470m) for the night.
Distance: 10–12 km
Walking Hours: 6–7 hours
Elevation Gain: 5,357m (Gokyo Ri)
Today, you’ll descend back through the lush forests and past the small villages to Namche Bazaar (3,440m). The trail offers great views of the mountains as you descend through the Dudh Koshi River valley. You’ll pass through Phortse and several smaller Sherpa settlements. After crossing the river, the last stretch is a steady uphill climb to Namche Bazaar, where you will spend the night. This marks the end of the high-altitude section of your trek.
Distance: 12-14 km
Walking Hours: 6-7 hours
Elevation Gain: Descent to 3,440m
Today, you will continue your descent back to Lukla (2,860m), where your trekking journey began. The trail descends steadily through beautiful forests of rhododendron and pine, crossing several suspension bridges along the Dudh Koshi River. As you approach Lukla, you will be greeted by the sight of the small mountain airstrip and the bustling village. Once you reach Lukla, you can relax and celebrate the completion of your challenging trek.
Distance: 17-18 km
Walking Hours: 6-7 hours
Elevation Gain: Return to 2,860m
Today, you will take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu from Lukla. The flight offers incredible aerial views of the Himalayan range. Once in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. You can relax and spend the rest of the day at leisure, reflecting on your incredible journey. In the evening, you may want to explore the local markets or enjoy a meal in one of the city’s excellent restaurants.
Flight Time: 30-40 minutes
Elevation: 1,400m (Kathmandu)
After days of trekking at high altitudes, today is a well-deserved leisure day to rest and relax in Kathmandu. You can explore the vibrant city at your own pace, shop for souvenirs, or visit places you may have missed earlier, like the Garden of Dreams, or enjoy a coffee in the lively Thamel area. Alternatively, you can visit some less-visited gems in the Kathmandu Valley, such as Patan Durbar Square or Bhaktapur Durbar Square. This day also allows for extra rest and a buffer in case of flight delays from Lukla.
In the evening, you will enjoy a farewell dinner with your guide and porters, celebrating the successful completion of your trek. This is a great opportunity to reflect on your adventure and share stories with fellow trekkers.
On your final day in Nepal, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. Depending on your flight time, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. We hope you have had an unforgettable experience and we look forward to welcoming you on another adventure in the Himalayas in the future!
Calendar & Price
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