Trip Facts

Duration

20 days

Trip Grade

Moderate

Country

Nepal

Maximum Altitude

5643m

Group Size

8

Starts

Lukla

Ends

Lukla

Activities

Trekking

Best Time

Spring

Highlights

  • Trek to Everest Base Camp and the serene Gokyo Lakes, crossing the adventurous Cho La Pass
  • Climb to two major viewpoints: Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar for the best views of Mount Everest from above.
  • Explore the lesser-travelled Gokyo Valley with its pristine glacial lakes and Ngozumpa Glacier
  • Walk through traditional Sherpa villages: Namche Bazaar, Dole, Machhermo, and Pangboche
  • Visit ancient monasteries and stay in teahouses nestled beneath the towering peaks of the Khumbu Himalayas
  • Fully guided trek with acclimatisation days and an expert local support team

Overview

The trekking path between Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp is one of the most complete in the Everest Region. It combines the grandeur of Everest Base Camp with the untouched beauty of Gokyo Lakes and the difficulty of Cho La Pass. Trekkers can visit two of the area’s most famous spots without going backwards or forwards on this trail over the course of 20 days.

This journey starts with a scenic flight to Lukla and gradually climbs through Sherpa settlements and pine forests to reach Namche Bazaar. From there, the route diverges toward the magical Gokyo Valley, dotted with turquoise lakes, followed by a climb to Gokyo Ri for sweeping views of Cho Oyu and Everest. The trail then leads over the icy Cho La Pass into the Everest Base Camp region. After reaching the base of the world’s highest mountain and climbing Kala Patthar, you descend through Tengboche and back to Lukla.

With a carefully designed itinerary that includes ample acclimatisation, rich cultural experiences, and a mix of popular and peaceful trails, this trek is ideal for adventurers looking to go beyond the classic Everest Base Camp Trek.

Itinerary

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be met by our Eco Himalaya team and transferred to your hotel in Thamel. Take the rest of the day to rest, explore the nearby streets, or prepare for the adventure. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu. Dinner included.

Today you’ll visit some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu, including Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. Later, meet your trekking guide for a detailed briefing, gear check, and final preparation. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu. Dinner included.

An early morning scenic flight to Lukla marks the beginning of your trek. After landing, we begin trekking on a gentle trail that descends through Chaurikharka village and heads towards the Dudh Koshi River. After passing through forests and small settlements, we reach Phakding. Overnight at a teahouse. Dinner included.

Crossing several suspension bridges and passing through the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park, the trail ascends steeply through pine forests. You’ll get your first glimpse of Mt. Everest on a clear day. We reach the vibrant Sherpa town of Namche Bazaar, the commercial hub of the Khumbu Region. Overnight at a teahouse. Dinner included.

To aid acclimatisation, we hike to the Everest View Hotel (3,880m), offering panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. On the way back, visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and Namche Monastery. Free time in the afternoon to explore the local market. Overnight at a teahouse. Dinner included.

Leaving the main EBC trail behind, we climb up past Mong La (3,957m), where stunning views await. The trail descends through rhododendron and pine forests toward Phortse Thanga, a less crowded but beautiful spot by the Dudh Koshi River. Overnight at a teahouse. Dinner included.

The trail follows a ridge with views of Cho Oyu, and we pass through Sherpa villages like Dole and Luza. After crossing small streams and alpine terrain, we reach Machhermo, a charming high-altitude village where the Yeti was reportedly sighted in 1974. Overnight at a teahouse. Dinner included.

We trek through open valleys and pass several beautiful turquoise lakes before reaching the third lake, Dudh Pokhari, which borders the village of Gokyo. The views of Cho Oyu and the glacier-fed lakes make this one of the most scenic spots in the region. Overnight at a teahouse. Dinner included.

Early morning climb to Gokyo Ri offers one of the best panoramic views in the Khumbu region—Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the massive Ngozumpa Glacier below. After descending, rest and explore the lakes or glacier surroundings. Overnight at a teahouse in Gokyo. Dinner included.

We walk along the edge of the Ngozumpa Glacier and make our way to Thagnak, a small settlement at the foot of Cho La Pass. It’s a short trek, designed to help us acclimatise before tomorrow’s challenging pass. Overnight at a teahouse. Dinner included.

This is one of the toughest but most rewarding days of the trek. Starting early, we ascend a steep, icy trail to Cho La Pass. The pass itself is stunning with views of icy walls and surrounding peaks. Descend carefully into the glacial valley toward Dzongla. Overnight at a teahouse. Dinner included.

We follow a relatively easier path with impressive views of Cholatse and Taboche peaks. After rejoining the classic EBC trail, we ascend gradually toward Lobuche. Overnight at a teahouse. Dinner included.

A challenging yet exciting day as we hike along the Khumbu Glacier to Gorak Shep. We'll keep going to the famous Everest Base Camp after lunch. Stand at the base of the tallest mountain in the world, surrounded by icefalls and prayer flags. Return to Gorak Shep for the night. Overnight at a teahouse. Dinner included.

We wake early for a pre-dawn climb to Kala Patthar for the best sunrise view over Everest, Nuptse, and the Khumbu Glacier. Then we descend steadily past Lobuche to reach Pheriche, a wind-swept valley village. Overnight at a teahouse. Dinner included.

Retracing our steps, we walk along the Imja River and pass through Tengboche with its famous monastery. After lunch, descend through rhododendron forests and pass small Sherpa settlements before reaching Namche. Overnight at a teahouse. Dinner included.

We continue descending steeply to cross several suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River and pass through Monjo and Phakding before the final gradual uphill to Lukla. It’s the last night in the Khumbu, so enjoy a hearty meal with your guide and porter. Overnight at a teahouse. Dinner included.

Weather permitting, we fly from Lukla to Kathmandu in the morning. After arrival, transfer to the hotel and enjoy a relaxing afternoon. You may explore the local markets for souvenirs. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu. Dinner included.

A free day in Kathmandu to relax, book a spa, or explore Patan or Bhaktapur on your own. Optional: farewell dinner with cultural performance in the evening. Overnight at a hotel. Dinner included.

We will transfer to the airport for your flight back home. We hope you leave with unforgettable memories of the Himalayas.

Cost Details

Included

  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Round-trip flight: Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu
  • Three nights’ hotel in Kathmandu (with breakfast)
  • All teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • Three meals a day during the trek
  • Licensed English-speaking trekking guide and porter (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
  • Everest National Park Permit and TIMS Card
  • All local and government taxes
  • Emergency medical kit and oximeter for altitude safety

Excluded

  • International airfare to/from Nepal
  • Nepal visa fees
  • Travel insurance (mandatory with evacuation coverage)
  • Personal trekking gear and equipment
  • Bottled water, snacks, and personal expenses
  • Wi-Fi, charging, and hot showers at lodges (available for a fee)
  • Tips for guide, porter, and driver
  • Extra nights due to bad weather, flight delays, or early return

Useful Information

  • Trek Difficulty: Challenging. You’ll be crossing a high mountain pass (Cho La) and reaching altitudes above 5,000m. Prior trekking experience is highly recommended.
  • Physical Fitness: Strong cardiovascular fitness, mental endurance, and proper acclimatisation are crucial.
  • Best Season: March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn) for the best views and weather.
  • Lukla Flight Note: Flights to Lukla sometimes get redirected to Ramechhap during peak seasons. We’ll handle this logistically.
  • Accommodation: Comfortable teahouses during the trek and a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.
  • Food Options: Nutritious, locally cooked meals (Dal Bhat, pasta, soups, noodles, and more) are available. Vegetarian options are widely accessible.
  • Drinking Water: We encourage trekkers to carry purification tablets or bottles with built-in filters to minimise plastic use.
  • Travel Insurance: Mandatory. It must cover high-altitude trekking (up to 5,600m) and emergency helicopter evacuation.
  • Permits Needed: TIMS Card, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit – all arranged by us.
  • Porter Support: Yes. We provide 1 porter per 2 trekkers, ensuring your comfort and ethical porter weight limits.
  • Communication: Limited Wi-Fi or mobile network in remote areas. Everest Link cards are available at teahouses.

FAQs

This trek is slightly more challenging due to the crossing of Cho La Pass and additional high-altitude days. Prior trekking experience and good fitness are highly recommended.

Yes, you’ll need the Sagarmatha National Park permit and a Khumbu Rural Municipality permit. We arrange all necessary permits for you.

Yes, you should bring Nepali rupees for extra food, Wi-Fi, hot showers, and other personal costs. There are only ATMs in Namche Bazaar.

Yes, people travelling alone can either join a group trip or ask for a private guide. We make sure you are safe and have fun on the trail.

We add an extra day to your stay in Kathmandu in case of delays caused by bad weather. In very bad situations, we can help set up a helicopter if needed (for an extra fee or because it's covered by insurance).