Gokyo Lake and Everest Base Camp

The Everest Base Camp Cho-La Pass Gokyo Lake Trek is a thrilling high-altitude journey combining the classic base camp experience with the less-traveled beauty of Gokyo Valley. This trek is ideal for adventurers seeking dramatic landscapes, challenging passes, and fewer crowds. Traverse across glaciers, scale high passes, and immerse yourself in Sherpa culture while enjoying awe-inspiring views of the world’s highest peaks.

Duration

18 days

group size

2-12

altitude

5550

trip start

Kathmandu

Best season

Spring, Autumn

difficulty

hard

Trekking Nepal Pvt.Ltd.

 

Everest Base Camp, Cho La Pass & Gokyo Valley Trek. Days Itinerary

The Everest Base Camp, Cho La Pass & Gokyo Valley Trek is one of the most spectacular adventures in the Himalayas, combining the legendary Everest Base Camp with the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and the thrilling crossing of the Cho La Pass (5,420 m).

This unforgettable journey takes you deep into the heart of the Khumbu region, through traditional Sherpa villages, ancient Buddhist monasteries, glacier valleys, and breathtaking mountain landscapes. Along the trail, enjoy incredible panoramic views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and many other Himalayan giants.

The adventure begins with the famous mountain flight to Lukla Airport and follows the classic trail to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, offering unforgettable close-up views of Everest. Crossing the icy Cho La Pass adds excitement and challenge to the journey before reaching the peaceful beauty of the Gokyo Valley and its stunning high-altitude lakes.

This trek is the perfect combination of adventure, nature, culture, and high mountain scenery. Ideal for trekkers looking for more than the classic Everest Base Camp route, it offers a complete Himalayan experience with some of the most beautiful landscapes on Earth.

           Detail of the trek

Best season

March - April and mid-September - November

Altitude maximum

5550 Kala Pather

Total duration

 17 days From KTM to KTM

Region

Everest / Khumbu

Accommodation

Hotel, Lodge

Transport

Airplane, Jeep

 

Everest Base Camp, Cho La Pass & Gokyo Valley Trek. Days Itinerary

Day 01 – Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)

Arrival in Kathmandu. Warm welcome at the international airport by our team and private transfer to your hotel. Free time to relax after your journey, discover the lively streets of Thamel, or enjoy your first experience of Nepalese culture.
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 02 – Kathmandu Sightseeing & Trek Preparation

Today you discover two of the most important cultural sites in Nepal with your guide and private vehicle. Visit the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, and the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath Temple located beside the Bagmati River. Final trekking briefing and preparation in the evening.
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 03 – Flight to Lukla (2,840 m) – Trek to Phakding (2,610 m)

Early morning scenic mountain flight to Lukla Airport, one of the world’s most famous Himalayan airports. Begin your trek with an easy walk through pine forests, Sherpa villages, prayer wheels, and suspension bridges following the Dudh Koshi River to Phakding.
Walking: 3 hrs | Distance: 8 km
↑ +200 m | ↓ -380 m
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 04 – Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)

A beautiful trekking day along the Dudh Koshi River with many suspension bridge crossings, including the famous Hillary Bridge. Enter Sagarmatha National Park before a gradual but challenging climb to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant capital of the Sherpa people. First distant views of Everest may appear on clear days.
Walking: 5–6 hrs | Distance: 10–11 km
↑ +1,050 m | ↓ -350 m
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 05 – Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar

Important acclimatization day to help your body adapt to the altitude. Hike to Khumjung village and Everest viewpoints for spectacular panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Thamserku. Visit local monasteries, Sherpa villages, or enjoy a coffee with mountain views in Namche Bazaar.
Walking: 4–5 hrs
↑ +450 m | ↓ -450 m
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 06 – Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860 m)

One of the most scenic days of the trek. Walk along a spectacular balcony trail with panoramic mountain views before descending to the river and climbing through rhododendron forests to Tengboche. Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery surrounded by Himalayan giants.
Walking: 5 hrs | Distance: 10 km
↑ +600 m | ↓ -400 m
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 07 – Tengboche to Dingboche (4,410 m)

Continue through Pangboche village and beautiful alpine landscapes. The trees slowly disappear as the scenery becomes more open and dramatic. Incredible close-up views of Ama Dablam accompany you throughout the day. Arrival at Dingboche, a peaceful village surrounded by stone walls and snowy peaks.
Walking: 5–6 hrs | Distance: 11 km
↑ +600 m | ↓ -200 m
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 08 – Acclimatization Day in Dingboche

Second acclimatization day with a gradual hike above Dingboche. The higher you climb, the more spectacular the scenery becomes with views of Makalu, Island Peak, Ama Dablam, and the Imja Valley. This important day helps your body adjust safely to high altitude.
Walking: 3–4 hrs
↑ +500 m | ↓ -500 m
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 09 – Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910 m)

Gradual ascent through alpine terrain toward Thukla Pass where memorials honor climbers who lost their lives on Everest. Continue beside glaciers and rugged mountain landscapes to Lobuche.
Walking: 5 hrs | Distance: 8 km
↑ +500 m | ↓ -100 m
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 10 – Lobuche (4,910 m) – Gorakshep (5,140 m) – Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) – Gorakshep

Follow the spectacular Khumbu Glacier trail to Gorakshep, the final settlement before Everest Base Camp. After lunch, continue to the legendary Everest Base Camp surrounded by glaciers, icefalls, colorful expedition tents during climbing season, and the world’s highest peaks. Return to Gorakshep for overnight stay.
Walking: 6–7 hrs
↑ +450 m | ↓ -220 m
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 11 – Gorakshep (5,140 m) – Kala Patthar (5,550 m) – Dzongla (4,830 m)

Early morning climb to Kala Patthar, the best viewpoint of Everest. Enjoy unforgettable sunrise views over Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, and the Khumbu Glacier. Descend to Gorakshep, continue through Lobuche, and reach the peaceful village of Dzongla.
Walking: 7–8 hrs
↑ +450 m | ↓ -760 m
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 12 – Dzongla (4,830 m) – Cho La Pass (5,420 m) – Thagnak / Thannak (4,700 m)

One of the most exciting and challenging days of the adventure. Cross the famous Cho La Pass with its glacier section, rocky paths, and dramatic Himalayan scenery. From the summit, admire spectacular panoramic views of snow-covered peaks before descending carefully to Thagnak in the beautiful Gokyo Valley.
Walking: 7 hrs
↑ +590 m | ↓ -720 m
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 13 – Thagnak / Thannak (4,700 m) – Gokyo (4,790 m)

Cross the impressive Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal, before reaching the magical turquoise lakes of Gokyo Valley. Relax beside the peaceful lakes surrounded by snowy mountains.
Walking: 3 hrs
↑ +150 m | ↓ -100 m
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 14 – Gokyo (4,790 m) – Gokyo Ri (5,360 m) – Machermo (4,470 m)

Early morning hike to Gokyo Ri, one of the finest viewpoints in the Himalayas. From the summit, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the magnificent turquoise Gokyo Lakes shining below the snow-covered peaks. After spending time at the summit and returning to Gokyo for breakfast, continue descending through the peaceful Gokyo Valley, passing yak pastures and alpine landscapes to reach the beautiful village of Machermo.
Walking: 6–7 hrs
↑ +570 m | ↓ -890 m
Accommodation: Lodge

 

 

Day 15 – Machermo (4,470 m) – Khumjung (3,780 m)

Continue descending through rhododendron forests, traditional Sherpa villages, and beautiful mountain scenery. Arrival at charming Khumjung village with magnificent views of Ama Dablam.
Walking: 5–6 hrs
↑ +150 m | ↓ -850 m
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 16 – Khumjung (3,780 m) – Namche Bazaar – Lukla (2,840 m)

Final trekking day of your Himalayan adventure. Descend from the beautiful Sherpa village of Khumjung to Namche Bazaar, then continue along the Dudh Koshi River through pine forests, traditional villages, and famous suspension bridges before reaching Lukla Airport. Celebrate the successful completion of your trek with your guide and trekking team.
Walking: 6–7 hrs
↑ +350 m | ↓ -1,300 m
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 17 – Flight to Kathmandu & Free Time

Early morning scenic flight back to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy free time for shopping, relaxing, or exploring the city.
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 18 – Final Departure

Private transfer to the international airport according to your flight schedule. End of your unforgettable Himalayan adventure in Nepal. We hope to welcome you again for another trek in the Himalayas.

 

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detailed itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu


  • Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our team will receive you and transfer you to your hotel.

  • Rest and prepare for the trek; optional short briefing session in the evening.

Day 2: Day 02 – Kathmandu Sightseeing & Trek Preparation


Today you discover two of the most important cultural sites in Nepal with your guide and private vehicle. Visit the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, and the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath Temple located beside the Bagmati River. Final trekking briefing and preparation in the evening.
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 3: Flight to Lukla (2,840 m) – Trek to Phakding (2,610 m)


  • Early morning scenic mountain flight to Lukla Airport, one of the world’s most famous Himalayan airports. Begin your trek with an easy walk through pine forests, Sherpa villages, prayer wheels, and suspension bridges following the Dudh Koshi River to Phakding.
    Walking: 3 hrs | Distance: 8 km
    ↑ +200 m | ↓ -380 m
    Accommodation: Lodge

Day 3: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)


  • Trek along the Dudh Koshi River, cross suspension bridges, and enter Sagarmatha National Park.

  • A steep ascent brings you to the Sherpa capital, Namche Bazaar – the trading and cultural hub of the Khumbu region.

  • Great views of Everest and Thamserku from nearby viewpoints.

Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar


  • Important rest day to help your body adjust to the altitude.

  • Optional hike to Everest View Hotel or Khumjung village for panoramic views of Everest and surrounding peaks.

  • Explore Namche’s bakeries, gear shops, and Sherpa culture museum.

Day 5: Trek to Tengboche


  • Hike through rhododendron forests with occasional mountain views.

  • After descending to Phunki Tenga, climb steeply to reach Tengboche.

  • Visit Tengboche Monastery, the region’s most famous Buddhist center with scenic mountain backdrop.

Day 6: Trek to Dingboche


  • Cross the Imja Khola and pass through forests and small villages.

  • Views of Ama Dablam dominate the trail.

  • Reach the beautiful village of Dingboche surrounded by wide alpine valleys.

Day 7: Acclimatization Day – Hike to Nagarjun Hill


  • Optional acclimatization hike up to Nagarjun Hill (5,100m) for stunning views of Lobuche East, Kangtega, and Ama Dablam.

  • Return to Dingboche for overnight rest.

Day 8: Trek to Lobuche


  • Trail climbs gradually through alpine terrain to Thukla Pass, marked with memorials to climbers who perished on Everest.

  • Continue along the glacial moraine to reach Lobuche village.

Day 9: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) & Return to Gorakshep (5,164m)


  • Start early, trekking through rocky terrain along the Khumbu Glacier to reach Gorakshep.

  • Continue to Everest Base Camp, where climbers begin their Everest ascents.

  • Celebrate and take photos before returning to Gorakshep for overnight.

Day 10: Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m) & Trek to Dzongla (4,830m)


  • Early morning hike to Kala Patthar for the best sunrise views of Everest, Nuptse, and Pumori.

  • Descend to Lobuche and continue westward to reach Dzongla, preparing for the Cho-La Pass.

Day 11: Cross Cho-La Pass (5,420m) & Trek to Thagnak (4,700m)


  • A challenging day crossing Cho-La Pass, which involves steep ascents, icy paths, and glacier crossings.

  • Careful navigation and a strong guide are key.

  • Descend to Thagnak, a small settlement below the Ngozumpa Glacier.

Day 12: Trek to Gokyo (4,800m)


  • Short and scenic trek across glacier trails.

  • Reach Gokyo, home to beautiful turquoise lakes.

  • Rest by the lake and explore the peaceful valley.

Day 13: Climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m) & Explore Gokyo Lakes


  • Early morning climb to Gokyo Ri, offering 360° views of Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and the Gokyo Lakes.

  • Return to Gokyo for breakfast and spend the day exploring Fourth and Fifth Gokyo Lakes if weather permits.

Day 14: Trek to Dole (4,200m)


  • Descend along a scenic ridge with spectacular views.

  • Pass yak pastures and Sherpa settlements as you reach Dole.

  • Easier walking as you lose altitude.

Day 15: Trek to Namche Bazaar


  • Descend further through forests of rhododendron and juniper.

  • Cross rivers and suspension bridges before returning to the lively village of Namche.

Day 16: Trek to Lukla


  • Final day of trekking through familiar terrain.

  • Celebrate with your trekking team upon arrival in Lukla.

Day 17: Fly Back to Kathmandu


  • Morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu.

  • Free time to rest or explore the city.

  • Optional farewell dinner with the team.

Day 18: Final Departure


  • Transfer to the airport for your international departure.

  • Alternatively, continue with additional tours in Nepal (Pokhara, Chitwan, etc.).

inclusion

  • Price Includes Included Services Details Airport Welcome & Transfers Warm welcome at the airport and all private airport-hotel-airport transfers Hotel in Kathmandu 3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast included Domestic Flights Round-trip flights between Kathmandu/Manthali and Lukla Airport Kathmandu Sightseeing Guided cultural visit to Boudhanath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple with private vehicle and driver Trekking Permits All required permits: Sagarmatha National Park Permit and Khumbu Municipality Permit Accommodation During Trek Comfortable lodge accommodation in twin-sharing rooms during the trek Meals During Trek Full board during the trek: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner + 1 hot drink (tea or coffee) per day Professional Guide Experienced, government-licensed English-speaking trekking guide Porter Service 1 porter for every 2 clients carrying up to 22 kg total luggage (excluding personal day bag) Staff Expenses Salaries, insurance, meals, accommodation, transport and equipment for guide and porter Trek Organization Complete organization and assistance throughout the trek

Exclusion

  • Price Does Not Include Not Included Services Details International Flights International airfare to and from Nepal Nepal Visa Nepal entry visa fees Travel Insurance Personal travel and rescue insurance Meals in Kathmandu Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu Extra Hotel Nights Additional hotel nights in Kathmandu beyond the included 3 nights Drinks & Beverages Alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, bottled water, fruit juices, Coca-Cola, Fanta, etc. Personal Expenses Wi-Fi, hot showers, battery charging, phone calls, laundry, souvenirs and personal purchases Tips Tips for guide, porter and local staff Extra Costs Costs caused by flight delays, bad weather, personal illness or unforeseen circumstances Other Services Anything not mentioned in “Price Includes”
  • Alcoholic & bottled beverages
Gokyo  Lake and Everest Base Camp

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frequently asked Question

It is a challenging trek requiring a good fitness level and prior trekking experience. The Cho-La Pass is steep and may be icy.

Yes, it's recommended to have previous high-altitude trekking experience for safety and comfort.

Altitude sickness is a concern. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days to reduce risk, and our guides are trained for emergencies.

Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) offer the best weather and views.