17 Day Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes

EBC via Gokyo LakesDESCRIPTION

If you have a few extra days to spare the Everest Base Camp via Goyko Lakes trek is a must do. This longer, more adventurous version of the classic Everest Base Camp Trek will take you to the top Gokyo Ri, to the emerald Gokyo Lakes, across the Cho La pass, to the top of Kala Patar and of course to Everest Base Camp. This route guarantees unspoiled mountain scenery. Our carefully prepared itinerary comes from our proven track record permitting ample time for safe acclimatization, the key to any successful trek in the Everest region.

The trip begins and ends in colorful Kathmandu, Nepal, where you will take an exciting flight to/from Lukla, then ascend to the vast glaciers of the Himalayas. Accommodations along the way are in teahouses and meals are “a la carte,” allowing you the flexibility to eat what you want.

Our guides are trained and licensed by the Nepal Mountaineering Association to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trek. In addition, Nepal is home to some of the friendliest people, the most beautiful scenery on the planet and a variety of cultural traditions. Ready. Set. Escape! The world famous Everest Base Camp via Goyko Lakes Trek awaits you.

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ITINERARY

DAY 1
Arrive Kathmandu

Our friendly Ultimate Expeditions representative will meet you at the airport and drive you to your hotel in Kathmandu. During this meet and greet your guide will discuss the daily activities of your trip.

DAY 2
Flight to Lukla - Trek to Phakding (8,713 ft / 2,656 m)

Enjoy an exciting flight from Kathmandu to Lukla – this flight is roughly 45 minutes and offers great views of the Everest region if you can secure a seat on the left of the plane. After landing on a steep mountainside runway you will meet the expedition crew and once the gear is sorted into loads the trek begins. The trail gradually descends on a well-marked trail to Phak Ding, approximately 4 hours of hiking.

DAY 3
Trek to Namche Bazaar (11,318 ft / 3,450 m)

We enter the National Park at Monjo as we continue to our next stop, Namche Bazaar the main trading village in the Khumbu region. The trail crisscrosses the Dudh Kosi (Milk River), these exciting crossing are over suspension bridges that sway high above the valley. The days trek is roughly 4.5 to 6 hours long and once in Namche Bazaar we are free to enjoy a coffee, brownie, chocolate doughnut or some other delightful baked goodie.

DAY 4
Namche Bazaar (11,318 ft / 3,450 m) *Acclimatization Day*

Today will be spent in Namche Bazaar to acclimatize and prepare our bodies to push higher into the Everest region. The village offers shopping opportunities as well as several lodges. It is a great place to spend a day before heading towards Dole.

DAY 5
Trek to Dole (13,398 ft / 4,084 m)

After a nice rest in Namche Bazaar, the days trek will be spent on a series of switchback trails to the Dudh Kosi River at Phortse Bridge. We head towards Mon La pass, where the trail climbs steep through rhododendron and birch forest until finally reaching Dole.

DAY 6
Trek to Machermo (14,468 ft / 4,410 m)

Machermo is a short trek from Dole and the trail climbs steadily hugging the side of the valley. As we trek higher in elevation the alpine scenery becomes dotted with only small clusters of scrub juniper but the route offers beautiful views of Cho Oyu, Kantega and Thamserku.

DAY 7
Machermo *Acclimatization Day*

We will spend a day in Machermo to acclimatize. There are many opportunities to explore around camp and above the village. Ascend the hill above the settlement to the North or you walk up the valley towards the West following the Machermo river.

DAY 8
Trek to Gokyo (15,583 ft / 4,750 m)

A short steep climb starts the days trek which leads from the Machermo Valley thru the terminal moraines of Ngozumpa Glacier. A steep rocky incline leads into the valley by the side of the glacier and passes the first of the holy lakes. Gokyo is surrounded by stone walled yak pastures and offers a stunning backdrop as Cho Oyu and Gyachung Kang’s massive summits reflect in the emerald green waters.

DAY 9
Ascent of Gokyo Ri (17,988 ft / 5,483 m) and trek to Tragnag (15,387 ft / 4,690 m)

The days trek starts with a steep climb up Gokyo Ri. This towering peak sits above the village on the northern edge of the lake where panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse and Makalu come into focus. After lunch we begin our trek to Tragnag.

DAY 10
Trek to Dzongla via the Cho La pass (15,846 ft /4,830 m)

The day begins with an early start to cross Cho La pass and the long descent to Dzongla. It's a rocky scramble to the pass, the trail continues up the valley crossing a ridge and a lateral moraine that includes steep glacier traversing. After crossing the pass the trail descends steeply towards Dzongla and offers exceptional views of Kyajo Ri, Tengkangpoche, Numbur, Kangchung, Ama Dablam and Cholatse along the way.

DAY 11
Trek to Lobuche (16,174 ft / 4,930 m)

From Dzongla we continue our decent through the grassy landscape to Lobuche.

DAY 12
Trek to Gorak Shep then Everest Base Camp (17,575 ft / 5,357 m)

Today’s trek starts by following the broad valley which runs parallel to the Khumbu Glacier and a stop for lunch in Gorak Shep before reaching Everest Base Camp itself 17,575 ft (5,364 m). This trek takes roughly 3 hours’ time, as it navigates through ice pinnacles and crevasses. On the return, you can take a higher route for spectacular views of the notorious Everest Ice Fall that flows from the Western Cwm. Overnight in Gorak Shep.

DAY 13
Kala Pattar then Dingboche (14,468 ft / 4,410 m)

A demanding hike to the top of Kala Pattar 18,221 ft (5,554 m) will begin early. The views from Kala Pattar are breathtaking, here you can gaze upon Everest and look deep into the Khumbu ice field. After photos are taken we will descend to Dingboche where we will spend the night.

DAY 14
Trek to Namche Bizarre (11,318 ft / 3,450 m)

From Dingboche we follow along the river to Tengboche before making our way back to Namche Bizarre.

DAY 15
Trek to Lukla (9,186 ft / 2,800 m)

The last day of trekking follows the Dudh Koshi River from Namche Bizarre back to Lukla. This is an ideal time to reflect on your trekking experience and celebrate your great achievement.

DAY 16
Fly to Kathmandu

After an early breakfast, you will catch a return flight to Kathmandu and stay overnight. You will have free time to roam the streets of Thamel, shop and enjoy the rich culture.

DAY 17
Depart Kathmandu

Our Ultimate Expeditions representative will drive you to the airport in Kathmandu for your return flight home or perhaps to your next adventurous destination.

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INCLUDED

  • Airport transfers
  • 2 nights at hotel in Kathmandu (before & after trek)
  • All ground transportation to and from trailhead
  • Flights to and from Kathmandu to Lukla (Everest region treks) or Pokhara (Annapurna region treks)
  • National Park permits, fees
  • Expert guides and porters
  • Lodge accommodations during treks, double occupancy
  • Meals and beverages during trek

EXCLUDED

  • Airfare
  • Lunch or dinner at hotel
  • Beverages at hotel
  • Personal gear and equipment
  • Tips

Nepal Trips