Gokyo lake and & EBC - 18 days
Trip Code: EBC=04
Price Per Person
$ 2683No. of People
Price Per Person
1-4
$ 2,683.
5-9
$ 2,480.
10-15
$ 2,250.
Overview
Introduction to Gokyo Lake and One Pass Everest Base Camp Trek
The adventure of walking through pristine glacial lakes, crossing high Himalayan passes and standing at the foot of the world’s highest peak is a dream for many trekkers. The Gokyo Lake and One Pass Everest Base Camp Trek is more than a journey it’s an expedition through stunning landscapes, Sherpa culture and personal endurance.
This trek takes you deep into the Khumbu region of Nepal, home of the Sherpa community and some of the world’s tallest peaks. Starting with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the route passes the serene Gokyo Lakes, the thrilling Cho La Pass and eventually leads to Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters.
A sunrise hike to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) rewards trekkers with one of the clearest panoramic views of Everest. The itinerary includes acclimatization days to help your body adjust safely to high altitudes, ensuring a comfortable and safe trekking experience.
Highlights of the Trek
- Scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla
- Explore the turquoise Gokyo Lakes
- Cross the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420 m)
- Reach Everest Base Camp
- Sunrise view from Kala Patthar
- Visit Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar, Machhermo and Dole
- Immerse in Sherpa culture and local hospitality
- Walk through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site
These are not just photo opportunities—they are defining moments of your trek.
What Makes This Trek Special
While many treks offer Everest views, this route combines two extraordinary experiences: Gokyo Lakes and the classic Everest Base Camp trail. You experience high-altitude lakes, glaciers and a challenging mountain pass, all while connecting with Sherpa culture.
Crossing Cho La Pass adds a thrilling dimension and reaching Everest Base Camp after navigating diverse terrains gives an unmatched sense of accomplishment.
Trek Route Experience
Your journey begins in Kathmandu, followed by an early flight to Lukla. From there, the trail moves through the Dudh Koshi River valley, passing villages like Phakding and Namche Bazaar.
You then explore Gokyo village and its lakes, ascend to Gokyo Ri for panoramic views and cross the rugged Cho La Pass to reconnect with the Everest Base Camp trail. The trek concludes with a sunrise at Kala Patthar, offering iconic views of Everest and surrounding peaks.
Returning to Lukla and flying back to Kathmandu, the trail feels different on the way down; every valley, village and mountain appears even more memorable.
Trek Difficulty
This trek is moderate to challenging. You do not need technical climbing skills, but stamina, patience and mental endurance are essential.
Daily walking ranges from 5–8 hours on uneven and rocky terrain. Altitude is the main challenge, especially at Cho La Pass and Kala Patthar. Proper acclimatization, hydration and a steady pace make this trek achievable for most healthy trekkers with basic fitness preparation.
Best Time to Trek
- Spring (March–May): Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons and stable weather.
- Autumn (September–November): Crisp air, strong visibility and comfortable trekking temperatures.
- Winter: Quieter but colder; monsoon brings rain and limited views.
Choosing the right season enhances visibility, safety and overall enjoyment.
Accommodation and Meals
Accommodation is in local teahouses and lodges along the route. Rooms are simple, usually twin-sharing, with shared bathrooms.
Meals include dal bhat, noodles, soups, rice, potatoes and pasta, with options decreasing slightly at higher altitudes but always warm and nourishing. Comfort comes from warmth, rest and sustenance rather than luxury.
Permits Required
To trek in the Everest region, you will need:
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
These are arranged before the trek and included in most packages.
Why Book With Us
We focus on safety, small group experiences and transparent pricing. Our guides are experienced Sherpa trekkers, trained to recognize altitude-related symptoms and provide support throughout your journey.
We ensure:
- Proper acclimatization planning
- Reliable domestic flights (Kathmandu ↔ Lukla)
- Local support and guidance
- Clear inclusions and exclusions
The goal is not just to reach Everest Base Camp, it’s to do it safely and confidently.
Read Before You Book
This trek is physically demanding. Mountain weather can change rapidly and flights to Lukla may be delayed.
Altitude sickness is possible but manageable with proper pacing. Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking is strongly recommended. Arrive prepared both physically and mentally for a rewarding experience.
Places You Will See
Creating Memories
Lake View
Moments
Itinerary
Highlights
- Airport pickup and hotel transfer
- Explore Thamel area
- Trek briefing session
- Cultural introduction to Nepal
- Rest and recovery
Max Elevation: 1,400 m
Duration: Full day
Your Himalayan journey begins as you arrive in Kathmandu, the cultural and trekking hub of Nepal. After landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be welcomed by your team and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for rest and light exploration of Thamel, a lively tourist district filled with trekking shops, cafes, and cultural energy.
In the evening, you may meet your guide for a detailed briefing about the Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp trek. This session includes route explanation, safety guidelines, and gear preparation overview to ensure you are fully ready for the adventure ahead.
Highlights
- Trek gear preparation
- Permit finalization
- Optional sightseeing
- Meeting fellow trekkers
- Final briefing
Max Elevation: 1,400 m
Duration: Full day
Today is dedicated to final preparations for your trek. You can check your trekking gear, rent missing equipment, and make sure everything is ready for high-altitude trekking. Your guide will assist you in verifying permits and final logistics.
You can also explore UNESCO heritage sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) or Boudhanath Stupa if time allows. This is your last chance to enjoy Kathmandu before heading into the Himalayas.
Highlights
- Scenic mountain flight
- First day trek begins
- Suspension bridge crossings
- River valley views
- Overnight at Phakding
Max Elevation: 2,860 m
Duration: 30 min flight + 3–4 hrs trek
Distance: ~8 km
Early morning scenic flight takes you from Kathmandu to Lukla, one of the world’s most adventurous airports. From Lukla, your trekking journey begins through beautiful mountain trails and Sherpa villages.
The trail gradually descends towards Phakding, following the Dudh Koshi River. You will pass suspension bridges, small settlements, and lush forests before reaching your first overnight stop in the Everest region.
Highlights
- Sagarmatha National Park entry
- Hillary Suspension Bridge
- Forest trekking trails
- First mountain views
- Arrival at Namche Bazaar
Max Elevation: 3,440 m
Duration: 6–7 hrs trek
Distance: ~10–11 km
Today’s trail follows the Dudh Koshi River and enters Sagarmatha National Park. You will cross several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Bridge, and gradually ascend through dense pine forests.
The final climb to Namche Bazaar is steep but rewarding. Upon arrival, you will enjoy your first stunning glimpse of Himalayan peaks if the weather is clear.
Highlights
- Everest View Hotel hike
- Himalayan panorama
- Sherpa culture experience
- Acclimatization walk
- Rest in Namche
Max Elevation: 3,880 m
Duration: 3–4 hrs hike
Distance: ~5 km
This is an important rest and acclimatization day. You will hike up to the Everest View Hotel, one of the highest luxury viewpoints in the world, offering breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
After returning, you can explore Namche Bazaar, visit the Sherpa Museum, or simply relax and let your body adjust to altitude before continuing the trek.
Highlights
- Gokyo Valley route begins
- Forest and wildlife trails
- Himalayan ridge views
- Less crowded path
- Overnight in Dole
Max Elevation: 4,038 m
Duration: 5–6 hrs trek
Distance: ~10 km
The trail today diverges from the Everest Base Camp route and heads towards the quieter Gokyo Valley. You will ascend through rhododendron forests and enjoy peaceful mountain trails with fewer trekkers.
The path offers beautiful views of Thamserku and other Himalayan peaks. Dole is a small settlement surrounded by nature, providing a calm overnight stay.
Highlights
- Alpine valley trekking
- Yak pastures
- Cho Oyu views
- Himalayan rescue post visit
- Overnight at Machhermo
Max Elevation: 4,470 m
Duration: 4–5 hrs trek
Distance: ~7 km
Today’s trek involves gradual ascent through scenic landscapes. You will pass small yak grazing settlements and enjoy stunning views of Cho Oyu and surrounding peaks.
Machhermo is known for its Himalayan rescue post and beautiful valley setting. This is another important step in acclimatization.
Highlights
- First view of Gokyo Lakes
- Glacier valley scenery
- Arrival at Gokyo village
- Stunning turquoise lakes
- Himalayan serenity
Max Elevation: 4,790 m
Duration: 4–5 hrs trek
Distance: ~7–8 km
Today you reach the stunning Gokyo Valley. The trail leads you through glacial terrain and scenic lakes before reaching the beautiful Gokyo village beside turquoise waters.
This is one of the most scenic parts of the trek, with dramatic mountain reflections and peaceful surroundings.
Highlights
- Sunrise hike to Gokyo Ri
- 360° Himalayan views
- Everest & Makalu panorama
- Gokyo Lakes exploration
- Photography paradise
Max Elevation: 5,357 m
Duration: 4–5 hrs hike
Distance: ~5 km round trip
Early morning hike to Gokyo Ri offers one of the best panoramic views in the Himalayas. From the summit, you can see Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
After descending, you return to Gokyo village for rest and exploration of the surrounding lakes.
Highlights
- Glacier valley views
- Cho La Pass preparation
- Rocky terrain trekking
- Scenic descent
- Overnight at Thangnak
Max Elevation: 4,700 m
Duration: 3–4 hrs trek
Distance: ~6 km
You begin descending slightly while preparing for Cho La Pass crossing. The trail passes near glaciers and rocky terrain with dramatic scenery.
Thangnak is a small settlement used as a base before crossing the high pass.
Highlights
- Cho La Pass crossing
- Glacier and snow terrain
- Challenging adventure day
- Panoramic mountain views
- Arrival at Dzongla
Max Elevation: 5,420 m
Duration: 7–9 hrs trek
Distance: ~10–12 km
This is one of the most challenging and exciting days. You cross the Cho La Pass, which involves steep climbs, icy paths, and breathtaking alpine scenery.
After reaching the top, you descend carefully to Dzongla, a quiet village surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes.
Highlights
- Rejoin EBC trail
- Glacier valley trekking
- Mountain scenery
- Arrival at Lobuche
- High-altitude rest
Max Elevation: 4,940 m
Duration: 4–5 hrs trek
Distance: ~8 km
The trail gradually connects you back to the Everest Base Camp route. You trek through rocky paths and glacial landscapes with views of Nuptse and surrounding peaks.
Lobuche is a popular stop for trekkers heading toward Everest Base Camp.
Highlights
- Everest Base Camp visit
- Khumbu Icefall views
- High-altitude trekking
- Iconic milestone achievement
- Return to Gorakshep
Max Elevation: 5,364 m
Duration: 7–8 hrs trek
Distance: ~12 km
Today is a major highlight as you trek to Gorakshep and continue to Everest Base Camp. The trail is challenging but rewarding with glacier views and rugged terrain.
Reaching Everest Base Camp is a dream moment for many trekkers, offering close-up views of Khumbu Icefall.
Highlights
- Long descent trek
- Sherpa village culture
- Mountain valley views
- Monastery visit
- Comfortable altitude drop
Max Elevation: 5,364 m
Duration: 6–7 hrs trek
Distance: ~14 km
You descend from high altitude, retracing your steps through familiar villages and landscapes. The descent feels easier and more comfortable.
Pangboche is a beautiful Sherpa village with ancient monasteries and cultural richness.
Highlights
- Forest trekking
- Suspension bridges
- Return to Namche
- Celebration with team
- Comfortable descent
Max Elevation: 3,985 m
Duration: 6–7 hrs trek
Distance: ~13 km
Today you continue descending through forests, rivers, and suspension bridges. The return to Namche feels refreshing after high-altitude adventure.
You can celebrate your journey with your trekking team in Namche Bazaar.
Highlights
- Final trekking day
- Scenic descent
- Farewell celebration
- Return to Lukla
- Relaxation evening
Max Elevation: 3,440 m
Duration: 6–7 hrs trek
Distance: ~18 km
This is your final trekking day in the Everest region. You descend back to Lukla, enjoying the last views of the mountains and villages.
In Lukla, you celebrate the successful completion of your trek with your crew.
Highlights
- Scenic return flight
- Himalayan aerial views
- Hotel transfer
- Free leisure time
- Rest in Kathmandu
Max Elevation: 2,860 m
Duration: 30 min flight
You take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu, enjoying aerial views of the Himalayas for the last time.
After arrival, you are transferred to your hotel for rest, shopping, or relaxation.
Highlights
- Airport transfer
- Trek completion
- Farewell Nepal
- Memory collection
- Departure
Max Elevation: 1,400 m
Duration: 1–2 hrs transfer
Your journey concludes today with a transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport. You leave Nepal with unforgettable memories of Everest, Gokyo Lakes, and the Himalayas.
This marks the end of your epic trekking adventure through one of the most beautiful regions on Earth.
Cost Include
- Domestic flights: Kathmandu ↔ Lukla
- Airport transfers in Kathmandu
- Accommodation in teahouses/lodges on trek
- All meals during trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Experienced Sherpa guides and porters
- Trekking permits: Sagarmatha National Park & Khumbu Pasang Lhamu
- First-aid kit and oxygen cylinder for emergencies
- Government taxes and service charges
Cost Exclude
- International flights to/from Nepal
- Travel and trekking insurance (high-altitude coverage recommended)
- Personal expenses: drinks, snacks, tips, laundry
- Accommodation in Kathmandu unless specified
- Extra activities not mentioned in itinerary
- Visa fees for Nepal
- Flight delays or cancellations (Lukla flights affected by weather)
Packing List for Gokyo lake and & EBC - 18 days
Clothing
- thermal layers
- trekking pants/shirts
- fleece
- down jacket
- waterproof jacket
- gloves
- hats
- socks
Footwear
- sturdy trekking boots
- comfortable shoes
- optional gaiters
Accessories
- sunglasses
- sunscreen
- lip balm
- headlamp
- trekking poles
- small daypack
- water bottles
Gear
- sleeping bag (-15°C)
- trekking backpack (30–40 L)
- waterproof cover
- camera/phone
- power bank
- dry sacks
- personal first-aid kit
Documents
- passport
- visa
- trekking permits
- travel insurance
- flight tickets
- emergency contacts
Optional/Recommended
- snacks
- towel
- trekking guidebook
- journal
- hand sanitizer
- earplugs
- cash for tips/tea houses
Photo Gallery
Map
FAQs
This trek is considered challenging to strenuous due to high altitude and the Cho La Pass crossing (5,420 m). It is suitable for trekkers with good fitness and prior trekking experience, but determined beginners can also complete it with preparation.
The highest point is Cho La Pass at 5,420 meters, followed by Gokyo Ri at 5,357 meters and Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters.
The full itinerary usually takes 17–18 days, including arrival, trekking, acclimatization, and return to Kathmandu.
Trekking experience is recommended but not mandatory. However, good physical fitness, stamina, and mental preparation are essential due to long walking days and high altitude.
The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when weather conditions are stable and mountain views are clear.
You need:
- Sagarmatha National Park Permit
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
Yes, altitude sickness is a major factor due to elevations above 5,000 m. Proper acclimatization days in Namche and gradual ascent help reduce risk.
Accommodation is mainly in basic teahouses and mountain lodges, offering twin-sharing rooms, meals, and limited facilities in higher regions.
You can expect Dal Bhat, noodles, soups, pasta, potatoes, eggs, and basic continental meals. Food variety decreases as altitude increases.
Yes, but limited. Wi-Fi is available in some lodges (paid), and mobile network (Nepal Telecom / Ncell) works in many lower regions but becomes weak in higher altitudes.
This trek includes both Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp via Cho La Pass, offering more diversity glacial lakes, remote valleys, high passes, and multiple Everest viewpoints.
Cho La Pass is challenging but manageable with proper guidance. It can be icy and steep, so trekkers must be cautious and follow the guide’s instructions.
Price Per Person
$ 2683No. of People
Price Per Person
1-4
$ 2,683.
5-9
$ 2,480.
10-15
$ 2,250.
