Everest Base Camp Via Gokyo Lake
Highlights
- Scenic Flight to Lukla: Enjoy a thrilling, panoramic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, landing in the heart of the Himalayas.
- Namche Bazaar: Explore this bustling Sherpa town, a key acclimatization stop with markets, monasteries, and stunning views.
- Gokyo Lakes: Trek to the beautiful turquoise glacial lakes of Gokyo, set against a dramatic mountainous backdrop.
- Gokyo Ri Summit: Hike to the summit of Gokyo Ri for breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier
- Cho La Pass: Cross the challenging Cho La Pass, offering spectacular views and a sense of accomplishment.
Overview
The Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lake is a more varied and visually spectacular route to Everest Base Camp, offering both the classic highlights of the Everest region and the unique beauty of the Gokyo Lakes.
The journey begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, a small airstrip nestled in the mountains. From Lukla, the trek ascends through the lush, green valleys of the Khumbu region, passing through traditional Sherpa villages such as Namche Bazaar, which serves as an acclimatization stop and a place to explore local culture and shops.
Instead of heading directly to Everest Base Camp, this trek diverts to the Gokyo Valley. You’ll climb up to the stunning Gokyo Lakes, a series of high-altitude glacial lakes renowned for their striking turquoise color set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. From here, you hike up to Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters), a summit that offers panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, as well as the vast Ngozumpa Glacier.
After exploring Gokyo, the trek continues over the Cho La Pass (5,420 meters), a challenging but rewarding crossing that connects the Gokyo Valley to the Everest Base Camp route. The pass provides breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment. Once you reach the Everest Base Camp, you'll have the opportunity to soak in the views of the Khumbu Icefall and the towering peaks surrounding the base camp.
The return journey typically retraces the path back to Lukla, with a final flight back to Kathmandu. This trek offers a diverse experience with stunning mountain scenery, serene lakes, and rich Sherpa culture, making it a memorable adventure for those seeking a comprehensive Everest region trek.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lake, a journey that blends classic highlights with extraordinary scenic beauty. This 16-18 day trek takes you through vibrant Sherpa villages, past lush valleys, and up to high-altitude glacial lakes. Starting with a thrilling flight to Lukla, you’ll trek through Namche Bazaar and explore the stunning Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri, renowned for their breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Crossing the challenging Cho La Pass, you’ll then continue to Everest Base Camp, experiencing the iconic base of the world’s highest peak. This trek offers a unique perspective on Everest, combining diverse landscapes, serene lakes, and rich cultural experiences.
- Day 1 - Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrive in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel, and meet your trekking team. Explore local sights if time permits.
- Day 2 - Fly to Lukla, Trek to Phakding
Early morning flight to Lukla (2,860 meters), then trek to Phakding (2,610 meters). Enjoy the scenic landscape and settle in.
- Day 3 - Trek to Namche Bazaar
Trek through the lush forest and cross suspension bridges to reach Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters), the main hub of the Khumbu region.
- Day 4 - Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar
Explore Namche Bazaar, visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and Everest View Hotel, or hike to nearby viewpoints for acclimatization.
- Day 5 - Trek to Dole
Begin the trek towards the Gokyo Valley, passing through beautiful forested areas and traditional villages, arriving in Dole (4,040 meters).
- Day 6 - Trek to Machhermo
Continue to Machhermo (4,470 meters), with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. This is another acclimatization day.
- Day 7 - Trek to Gokyo
Ascend to Gokyo (4,790 meters), a serene area with turquoise lakes and dramatic mountain scenery. Rest and enjoy the views.
- Day 8 - Gokyo Ri and Trek to Dragnag
Early morning hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters) for panoramic views, then descend and continue trekking to Dragnag (4,700 meters).
- Day 9 - Cross Cho La Pass, Trek to Lobuche
Cross the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420 meters), then descend to Lobuche (4,940 meters), enjoying stunning high-altitude views.
- Day 10 - Trek to Everest Base Camp, Return to Gorak Shep
Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters) for a breathtaking experience, then return to Gorak Shep (5,170 meters) for the night.
- Day 11 - Hike to Kala Patthar, Return to Pheriche
Early morning hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 meters) for panoramic views of Everest, then descend to Pheriche (4,371 meters).
- Day 12 - Trek to Namche Bazaar
Descend back to Namche Bazaar, retracing your steps through the beautiful Khumbu landscape.
- Day 13 - Trek to Lukla
Continue the trek back to Lukla, completing your journey through the Everest region.
- Day 14 - Fly Back to Kathmandu
Early morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. Spend the day relaxing, shopping, or exploring the city.
- Day 15 - Departure
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight, or continue exploring Kathmandu if time permits.
- Embarking on the 10-day Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lake involves several key expenses. You'll need to account for international flights to Kathmandu and domestic flights to Lukla, along with necessary trekking permits and park fees. Essential costs include hiring a guide and porter to assist with navigation and carrying your gear, as well as staying in lodges along the trek, which typically offer basic amenities. Meals are provided at local teahouses and lodges throughout the journey. Additional expenses encompass travel insurance, tips for your trekking staff, and personal gear and equipment. These costs combine to offer a comprehensive trekking experience, blending adventure with the breathtaking beauty of the Everest region.
- For a 10-day Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lake, you will need to consider several key expenses. This includes domestic flights from Kathmandu to Lukla and back, trekking permits and park fees, as well as the cost of hiring a guide and porter. Accommodation in lodges along the trek and meals at local teahouses also contribute to the overall cost. Additionally, you’ll need to budget for travel insurance, tips for your trekking staff, and any personal gear or equipment you might need. These components together make up the overall expense for this adventure, providing a comprehensive trekking experience in the stunning Everest region.
Important Information
The Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lake is a 10-day adventure that takes you through stunning landscapes, including turquoise lakes and high mountain passes, culminating at Everest Base Camp. Highlights include Gokyo Ri for panoramic views, the challenging Cho La Pass, and experiencing the iconic base camp of the world's highest peak.