18 Days Challenging

Everest B. C. via Gokyo - 18 days

Everest B. C. via Gokyo - 18 days

Difficulty
Challenging
Max Elevation
5420
Duration
18
Best Time
Lukla - Lukla
Accommodation
Tea Houses / lodges
Group Size
2-15 pax

The Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo and Cho La Pass is one of the Himalayas’ most iconic journeys, taking in the world’s highest mountains and Sherpa land. The trek lies within Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and reaches Gokyo Peak, Cho La Pass (5,420 m), Kala Patthar (5,545 m), and Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), the starting point for climbers attempting Mount Everest (English), also known as Sagarmatha in Nepali and Chomolungma in Sherpa and Tibetan (8,848.86 m). The journey begins in Lukla, following the Dudh Koshi River north to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant Sherpa hub. Nearby villages, including Khumjung and Khunde, feature a school and hospital supported by Sir Edmund Hillary. Local legends regard Chomolungma as the “Mother Goddess of the World,” with prayers offered at monasteries for safe passage.

The trek moves north through the Gokyo Valley, passing the sacred turquoise Gokyo Lakes and crossing the Ngozumpa Glacier, the world’s longest glacier. The challenging Cho La Pass connects Gokyo Valley with the main Everest Base Camp trail. Moving east through Zongla, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep, the route offers breathtaking views of Everest to the north, Lhotse to the east, Nuptse to the south, and Ama Dablam, Pumori, and Thamserku across the valleys, while the Khumbu Glacier adds dramatic icy landscapes. Legends speak of early Sherpas navigating these glaciers long before Everest became famous to climbers worldwide.

The journey culminates at Everest Base Camp, with the ascent to Kala Patthar providing an unforgettable close-up view of Everest. Cultural highlights include mani stones, chortens, and Tengboche Monastery, established about 350 years back under Lama Sangwa Dorje, and still a spiritual centre for blessings. Combining high-altitude adventure, spectacular mountain scenery, and rich Sherpa (Shepa) and Tibetan culture, this trek offers a truly unforgettable Himalayan experience.

Trip Highlight

  • Spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.
  • Explore Gokyo Valley and climb Gokyo Peak.
  • Cross the challenging Cho La Pass.
  • Experience Sherpa culture and famous monasteries.
  • Optional Kala Patthar climb for a close-up of Everest.
  • Cross the world’s longest Ngozumpa Glacier.

Itinerary

  • D1

    Arrive Kathmandu (1,350m). Transfer to the hotel

    Your memorable holiday begins in Kathmandu. After arrival, you will have time to freshen up before meeting your guide for an afternoon briefing. This is the perfect moment to organize your trekking gear and prepare your bags for the journey ahead.

    Accommodation: Hotel. Meals included: morning
    Transport : 20 M drive hotel

  • D2

    Kathmandu - Ramechhap - Lukla (2,860 m) - Phakding (2,610 m)

    Early in the morning, we drive to Ramechhap, which takes about 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic. From Ramechhap, you take a short flight to Lukla, the main gateway to the Everest region. The trek starts from Lukla with a gentle walk through forests, over suspension bridges, and past Sherpa villages. After 3 to 4 hours, you reach Phakding, a riverside village and the first overnight stop.

    Note: Flights to Lukla may be from Kathmandu or Ramechhap Airport due to airport congestion. If flight is cancelled because of bad weather, it will be rescheduled for the next day, and an extra night’s stay will be provided in Kathmandu or Ramechhap.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Transport : 4/5 hours drive (Ramechhap), 25 minutes flight (Lukla).
    Elevation gain: 200 m . Elevation loss : 450 m . 3/4 hours walking.


  • D3

    Phakding - Namche Bazaar (3,440 m).

    Today, we start with a pleasant walk through a pine forest along the river, followed by a short climb out of a narrow gorge. The permits are checked before entering into the Sagarmatha National Park entrance, then we cross the river on a suspension bridge. The trail goes through a wooded valley and crosses the river again before reaching the meeting point of the Thame and Khumbu rivers. A final high suspension bridge (Hillary Bridge) marks the start of a 1.5h climb to Namche Bazaar, with our first views of Everest on the way.

    On arrival, we stay in a local lodge. Namche, once a quiet village, is now a busy trekking hub with bakeries, cafés, pubs and other comforts brought back by well-travelled Sherpas.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Elevation gain: 1178 m. Elevation loss : 409 m. 6/7 hours walking.


  • D4

    Day Excursion, Everest View Point -Khumjung (3790 m)

    Today is the rest day to acclimatise and enjoy the area. This is also to hike to the Everest View Hotel (3,880 m) for beautiful views of the Himalaya.You can also explore Namche Bazaar - relax in a café, browse the market, or visit the Sherpa Museum to learn about local culture. We spend the two night in this famous mountain village.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Elevation gain: 680 m. Elevation loss : 680 m. 5 hours walking.

  • D5

    Namche-Phorste (3,840 m).

    Starting from Namche, the comfortable trail and stunning panoramic views stretch out before you, making you feel as if you are on a balcony overlooking the mountains. The trail leads to Kyanjuma, where we head towards Gokyo and leave the main Everest Base Camp trail. From here, today’s climb begins towards Mongla Pass. After lunch, we descend to the river before climbing through the forest to reach a beautiful Sherpa village.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Elevation gain:700 m. Elevation loss: 340 m. 6 hours walking.

  • D6

    Phorste- Machermo (4,470m).

    After breakfast, the trail climbs gradually, offering beautiful panoramic views and passing mani walls and prayer flags. Machhermo village lies on the left bank of the river.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Elevation gain:888 m. Elevation loss: 311 m. 6 hours walking.

  • D7

    Machermo - Gokyo (4800 m).

    Today is a short but very scenic walk. The trail climbs gradually through rocky areas and along the Ngozumba Glacier, following the Gokyo Valley. Along the way, you can enjoy views of Cho Oyu, Gokyo Peak, Cholatse and Tabuche. As you near Gokyo, you will see its famous turquoise lakes. The village sits beside the third lake, Dudh Pokhari, where the mountains are beautifully reflected in the water, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
    Elevation gain:380 m. Elevation loss: m. 4 hours walking.

  • D8

    Gokyo - Gokyo Peak (5357 m) - Thangnak (4,700m)

    Today we climb Gokyo Peak (5,357?m). The climb takes around 2 hours. It is steep but very rewarding. From the top, you can see Everest, Lhotse, and the beautiful Gokyo Lakes. After photos, we hike back to Gokyo for lunch. Then we continue to Thangnak, a trek of around 2 hours, crossing the Ngozumba Glacier, the world’s longest glacier. Walking on the glacier is not easy, so careful attention is required.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening
    Elevation gain: 790 m or 210 m. Elevation loss: 900 m or 300 m.
    2 hours 15 minutes (without Gokyo Peak), walking 5 hours 30 minutes (including)

  • D9

    Thangnak - Cho La Pass (5420m) - Dzongla (4,830m)

    Today  is one of the most challenging and rewarding sections of the Everest region. The journey start early to cross the steep and icy Cho La Pass. The trail involves a tough ascent over rocky terrain and possibly snow or ice, with spectacular views of surrounding peaks. After reaching the pass, you descend carefully on a slippery trail, eventually reaching Dzongla, a small, scenic settlement surrounded by towering mountains. It’s a demanding but unforgettable day on the trek. 

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening
    Elevation gain : 300 m. Elevation loss: 200 m. 2/4 hours walking.

  • D10

    Dzongla - Lobuche (4940 m)

    We start from Dzongla, bottom of Dzongla Peak. The surrounding mountains are magnificent. The trail passes above Chola Tso, a green and beautiful lake. The path is easy and scenic. Before joining the Everest Hillary Trail, another panoramic view opens up, including Everest Base Camp, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, Khumbutse, Ama Dablam, and Lobuche Peak.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening
    Elevation gain : 300 m Elevation loss: 200 m. 2/4 hours walking.


  • D11

    Lobuche - Kalpathar (5545 m) - Gorasheep (5,164M)

    The trail passes along the Khumbu Glacier, with some ups and downs. We arrive at Gorakshep, the last stop before Everest Base Camp. From here, you can make a steep 2-3 hour round-trip climb to Kala Patthar, the closest viewpoint of Everest, for amazing views of the mountain and surrounding mountains. After the climb, you return to Gorakshep to rest.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening
    Elevation gain: 825 m. Elevation loss :545 m. 6/7 hours walking.

  • D12

    Gorasheep - Everest Base Camp (5364 m) - Lobuche (4,940 M)

    Today, we  trek to Everest Base Camp, where you can explore the famous glacier and expedition camps. After visiting the base camp, you return to Gorakshep for lunch, then descend to Lobuche.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening
    Elevation gain: 205 m. Elevation loss : 424 m. 6/7 hours walking.

  • D13

    Lobuche -Tengbuche (3,867 M)

    Today, the trek descends gradually through varied terrain. We pass Dughla (4,620?m) and Pheriche (4,280?m), through alpine terrain, rhododendron and pine forests. Along the way, we visit Upper Pangboche, home to the oldest monastery in the Khumbu region, founded around 1667?AD by Lama Sangwa Dorje. The trail then goes down to a bridge, follows a wooden path through the forest, and includes a small climb before reaching Tengboche, the largest monastery in the region, with spectacular views of Everest, Ama?Dablam and the surrounding mountains.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening
    Elevation gain: 90 m . Elevation loss: 1120 m. 8 hours walking..


  • D14

    Tengbuche - Namche

    From Tengboche, we descend through rhododendron and pine woodland. We often hear the sounds of prayer wheels and birds. The path drops steeply to the Dudh Koshi River. We cross it on a suspension bridge. We then follow a steady, well-marked trail, climbing gradually through the trees. As we approach Namche Bazaar, Everest and the surrounding peaks come into view. The trail levels out as we reach the lively Sherpa town of Namche.

    Accommodation: Lodge. Meals included: morning afternoon evening.
    Elevation gain : 420 m Elevation loss: 420. 5/6 hours walking.


  • D15

    Namche -Lukla

    Today, the trek from Namche to Lukla retraces the same scenic route taken on the ascent. we share our final moments with the porters - a meaningful time to reflect on the journey and celebrate the experiences we’ve shared together.

    Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening
    Elevation gain: 600 m. Elevation loss : 1180 m. 6/7 hours walking.


  • D16

    flight from Lukla -Ramechap and drive to Kathmandu

    Start the day with an early morning flight from Lukla to Ramechhap, offering final views of the Himalayas. From there, enjoy a scenic drive back to Kathmandu. The rest of the day is free to relax, explore, and shop.

    Accommodation: Hotel. Meals included: morning, afternoon.
    Transport : 30 minutes flight. 4/5 hours drive (Kathmandu).

  • D17

    Kathmandu - Souvenirs day | Sightseeing Day.

    If you choose sightseeing, this full-day cultural tour offers a well-rounded experience of Kathmandu’s history, spirituality, and art, guided by a certified expert who will enrich your understanding of the city’s unique heritage.

    Suggested itinerary (maximum three sites per day):

    - Swayambunath
    - Bhaktapur
    - Boudhanath
    - Patan Durbar Square
    - Kathmandu Durbar Square

     The price includes a certified cultural guide, a reserved vehicle, and a professional driver for the day.

    Pricing per person:

      2 - 3 People: €70
      4 - 6 People: €50
      7 - 10 People: €35
      11 - 15 + People: €30                                                    

  • D18

    Final Departure / Back to Native Land

    According to your flight schedule, we will drive you to the airport for your onward journey.

Information

    • What's included
    • What's not included
    • Personal Expenses & Currency
    • Tips & Gratitude
    • Best Time & Best Weather
    • Best Treks, Food & Accommodation
    • Altitude Sickness, Risks & Prevention
    • Know About Nepal
    • Emergency Contacts & Safety
    • Electronics & Communication
    • Navigation & Safety Gear
    • First Aid Kit & Medication
    • Trekking gear & equipment
    • Trail-specific footwear
    • Trekking Essentials
    • Optional But Useful Gear

Group Departures

  • All Years
  • 2026
  • 2027
  • All Months
  • February
  • March
  • September
  • October
  • November
Dates
Status
15th October, 2026 - 1st November, 2026
Limited
17th October, 2026 - 3rd November, 2026
Limited
19th October, 2026 - 5th November, 2026
Limited
26th October, 2026 - 12th November, 2026
Limited
12th February, 2027 - 1st March, 2027
Limited
7th March, 2027 - 24th March, 2027
Limited
19th March, 2027 - 5th April, 2027
Limited
20th September, 2027 - 7th October, 2027
Limited
10th October, 2027 - 27th October, 2027
Limited
20th October, 2027 - 6th November, 2027
Limited
7th November, 2027 - 24th November, 2027
Limited
11th November, 2027 - 28th November, 2027
Limited

FAQs

1What is special about Gokyo?
Gokyo is famous for its beautiful glacial lakes, Ngozumpa Glacier and Gokyo Ri (5,360m) which offers panoramic views of four 8,000m peaks: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
2Is it worth climbing Gokyo Ri?
Absolutely! The sunrise or sunset view from Gokyo Ri is one of the best in the Himalayas - arguably better than Kala Patthar.
3How difficult is Cho La Pass?
It is a challenging and steep high pass at 5,420 meters, with a glacier section on top. It requires careful footing and sometimes microspikes, especially in snow.
4Is Cho La Pass dangerous?
It’s not technical but can be risky in bad weather or if unprepared. Always check weather conditions and start early in the morning.
5What is Kala Patthar and why is it famous?
Kala Patthar (5,545m) is a viewpoint above Gorak Shep that offers the closest and most iconic view of Mount Everest.
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Mingmar S. Sherpa
Mingmar S. Sherpa
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Lhakpa Sherpa
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