 Located in the eastern half of Nepal, the Everest region offers a wide range of trekking experiences. It is the most popular region for trekking and expedition on earth! One does the Everest Trek to see Everest up close, to approach the world's highest mountain (8848m) as closely as possible for a trekker, to experience Everest. But there's more to the Everest Trek than just Everest. Besides Mt. Everest, there are all the other beautiful snow-clad peaks - Ama Dablam, Kwangde, Thamserku, Pumori to mountain scenery all around, glacial lakes, deep forested valleys with the Dudh Koshi River surging below, picturesque waterfalls, giant rhododendron in bloom (during spring and summer), the amazing shades and shapes of the mountains beyond the tree line, the awesome, somber glaciers. There are, of course, the traditional villages and ancient Buddhist monasteries, all go to make this region a spectacular destination. Many foreigners, intending to spend the vacation in the nature and with natural surroundings, full of peace and tranquility, choose the trekking tour in this very region, which they believe to be a source of mental happiness and satisfaction.
The most frequented part of the region is located in Solukhumbu district, the home of the legendary Sherpas with their Tibetan culture. The northern part of the district (Khumbu) is encompassed in the Sagarmatha National Park (World Heritage Site), which was established to protect the fragile environment of the alpine region. To the east of Sagarmatha National Park is the Makalu-Barun National Park, a remote and wild stretch of mountain peaks and deep densely forested valleys. To the west is the Rolwaling Valley, a well protected microcosm of cultures and ecology. The southern part of the district (Solu) is much less frequented by tourist and be a very rewarding destination in its own right.
Everest Base Camp Trek
This is one of the most popular high altitude treks exceeding 5000m. From the tiny airfield of Lukla the trail leads through Sherpa villages, forests of fir and rhododendron and across high suspension bridges meeting caravans of Zobkyo (a yak-cow crossbreed) along the way and from Tengboche the views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Ama Dablam are sensational. Climbing above the trek line to cross alpine pastures and glacial moraine you eventually reach Base Camp, high on the Khumbu Glacier where colorful expedition tents give a bizarre appearance to this desolate place surrounded by rock, snow and ice.
If you suffer symptoms of altitude sickness and cannot go to the Base Camp, you can still make a worthwhile trek to less ambitious destinations such as Namche Bazaar, the administrative headquarter of the Khumbu region; Khumjung or Thame, more typical Sherpa villages; or Tengboche Monastery.
Trek Profile:
| Grade |
: Moderate |
| Avg. walking per day |
: 5 Hrs |
| Maximum Altitude |
: 5545m |
| Best Seasons |
: Feb-May, Oct-Nov |
| Type of Trek |
: Camping/Teahouse |
| Starting Point |
: Lukla |
| Ending Point |
: Lukla |
Suggested Itinerary:
Day 01: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, pick-up & transfer to hotel
Day 02: Kathmandu Valley sightseeing
A day trip around the valley, which is rich in Cultural Heritage, consisting of seven sights listed in World Heritage List.
Day 03: Fly to Lukla (2810m) & trek to Phakding (2610m)
From Kathmandu, we take an early flight to Lukla. It’s a 30 minutes flight with excellent views of Langtang, Rolwaling and Everest mountain regions on the north and beautiful green valleys on the south.
From Lukla, we head north following Dudh Koshi River. On the way, we pass through several beautiful villages and cross a few suspension bridges.
Day 04: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3450m)
After a few ups and downs for 2.30 hrs, we arrive at the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park, where our permits will be checked, and another half an hour walk to Jorsale, which is the last village before Namche Bazaar. After Jorsale, it is approximately 1 hr walk on flat trail and then it is 2 hrs hard climb to Namche Bazaar. At the beginning of the uphill, one can have his/her first sight of Mt. Everest along with Mt. Taboche. Namche Bazaar is one of the most beautiful villages in the Khumbu region with its typical curved shape and excellent vies of Mt. Kongde and Mt. Thamserku. Besides this, there’s a lot more that a trekker can do there, e.g. one can visit the monastery on the western edge of the town or one can take a walk through the beautiful town or visiting the Sherpa Photo Gallery or Mountaineering Museum might be a brilliant idea. Also one can spend some time interacting with fun loving Sherpa and Rai people there.
Day 05: Rest day for acclimatization
On this day, a trekker can explore the beautiful town as well as do an easy acclimatization walk up Syangboche or Khumjung. After the breakfast, one can hike to Everest View Point Hotel, an ideal place to overview some outstanding mountains such as Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Thamserku etc. The hike can be extended to Khumjung Village or Khunde Village to explore more about the Sherpa people and their lifestyle. Also one can visit the hospital in Khunde and Hillary School in Khumjung.
Day 06: Trek to Tengboche (3860m)
A relatively easier trail for first 2 hrs with nice view of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Thamserku and others, we arrive to Kyangjuma and then it’s another 45 minutes steep downhill through the rhododendron forest. And from Fungi Tanga, it’s another 1.30 hrs hard climb but with a great view of beautiful green valley and Mt. Ama Dablam.
Tengboche is a beautiful place with beautiful scenery of green valley and Mt. Kang Taiga towering right above it, as well the biggest monastery in the Khumbu region. On the occasion of Mani Rimdu (A festival that starts at full moon in October), they perform special dances outside the monastery for three days.
Day 07: Trek to Dingboche (4360m)
An excellent walk through the green forest for 1 hr and then we cross the Imja Khola, and start climbing again, approximately 1 hr climb to leads you to another beautiful Sherpa village (Pangboche). From Pangboche, it’s another 3 hrs ups and downs via Shomare and Orsho, and finally we arrive to Dingboche. A spectacular view of Mt. Ama Dablam standing right in front, as well as Mt. Lhotse, Shartse, Island Peak etc. makes the village really impressive.
Day 08: Rest day for acclimatization
As we are already at 4400m on our 5 days walk and we still have to go a long way up, another rest day here is very important regarding acclimatization. Along with the walk around the village, a side trip to a small col on the north of the village (from where one can see Mt. Makalu) or a side trip to Chhukung Valley (A great view as big snow mountains including Mt. Lhotse are very close) is advised.
Day 09: Trek to Lobuche (4930m)
As we leave, we start climbing a small col on the north of the village. It’s approximately 1 hr climb, and then it’s a relatively flat trail up to Duglah. From Duglah, it’s a very hard climb (especially because of the thin air) for 1 hr to Lobuche.
Day 10: Trek to Gorak Shep (5180m)
A 2 hrs walk going up and down on the side of Khumbu Glacier, as well crossing the shore of Chang-Ri Glacier, you will get to Gorak Shep. From Gorak Shep, you can only see the tip of Everest, but the pinpointed Nuptse looks awesome.
Day 11: Trek to Everest Base Camp - Gorak Shep
The trail is relatively flat but the thin air makes it a big effort, 2 hrs walk on a very rough trail and 1 hr walk through Khumbu Glacier leads you to Everest Base Camp (5300m), right on the foot of Mt. Khumbutse and Khumbu Ice Fall (which has taken lives of many climbers), is right in front. Everest can not be seen from here, but one can see and hear the Ice Blocks falling frequently from the Khumbu Ice Fall. One can spend a long time, especially in springs (April/May), when there are a lot of climbers with the dream to get themselves to the ‘Top Of The World’. In the end, the trekkers have to go all the way back to Gorak Shep.
Day 12: Trek to Kala Patthar - Dingboche
Kala Patthar, an excellent viewpoint which appears as a small grassy hill from Gorak Shep, is there to be climbed for the spectacular view of Mt. Everest. It is better to arrive at the top of Kala Patthar when the sun is high up (e.g. 9:00 am). One can climb Kala Patthar in the afternoon, but the weather in the mountains is generally clear in the morning, so it is better to do the Kala Patthar in the morning. Starting to climb early in the morning (somewhere around 6.00 am) the grassy slope, the ‘Top Of The World’ starts to appear little by little; though the thin air makes the climbing really hard, with every step of your climbing, you can see a little bit more of Everest. It might take 1.30 hrs to 3 hrs to arrive to the summit of the Kala Patthar which is right below Mt. Pumori. From there, one can see the ‘Top Of The World’ resting on its south-west shoulder, the wall of big white mountains (Mt. Khumbutse, Mt. Lingtren, and Mt. Pumori) bordering Tibet along with Mt. Changtse, which is in Tibet, also pinpointed Nuptse is standing tall in the east, as well Mt. Chang-Ri and Chang-Ri Glacier on the west, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Kang Taiga, Mt. Thamserku, Mt. Taboche, Mt. Cholatse and Mt. Lobuche make the circle complete. One can also have a look at Everest Base Camp, Khumbu Ice Fall and huge Khumbu Glaciers. Afterwards, it’s time to get down to Gorak Shep and continue downwards to Dingboche.
Day 13: Trek to Tengboche
Day 14: Trek to Namche Bazaar
Day 15: Trek to Lukla
Day 16: Fly back to Kathmandu
Day 17: Departure or free for personal activities
Gokyo - Renjo La Pass Trek
A trek different from the normal trek done in this area, the area (Gokyo Valley and Thame Valley) is less crowded as very few people take this route (Everest Base Camp being normal trek). This trek includes beautiful Gokyo Valley, excellent panorama, sparkling Gokyo Lakes, a rarely attempted pass (Renjo La), and less explored Thame Valley and of course very few trekkers.
Trek Profile:
| Grade |
: Moderate Hard |
| Avg. walking per day |
: 5 Hrs |
| Maximum Altitude |
: 5387m |
| Best Seasons |
: Feb-May, Oct-Nov |
| Type of Trek |
: Camping/Teahouse |
| Starting Point |
: Lukla |
| Ending Point |
: Lukla |
Suggested Itinerary:
Day 01: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, pick-up & transfer to hotel
Day 02: Kathmandu Valley sightseeing
A day trip around the valley, which is rich in Cultural Heritage, consisting of seven sights listed in World Heritage List.
Day 03: Fly to Lukla (2810m) & trek to Phakding (2610m)
From Kathmandu, we take an early flight to Lukla. It’s a 30 minutes flight with excellent views of Langtang, Rolwaling and Everest mountain regions on the north and beautiful green valleys on the south.
From Lukla, we head north following Dudh Koshi River. On the way, we pass through several beautiful villages and cross a few suspension bridges.
Day 04: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3450m)
After a few ups and downs for 2.30 hrs, we arrive at the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park, where our permits will be checked, and another half an hour walk to Jorsale, which is the last village before Namche Bazaar. After Jorsale, it is approximately 1 hr walk on flat trail and then it is 2 hrs hard climb to Namche Bazaar. At the beginning of the uphill, one can have his/her first sight of Mt. Everest along with Mt. Taboche. Namche Bazaar is one of the most beautiful villages in the Khumbu region with its typical curved shape and excellent vies of Mt. Kongde and Mt. Thamserku. Besides this, there’s a lot more that a trekker can do there, e.g. one can visit the monastery on the western edge of the town or one can take a walk through the beautiful town or visiting the Sherpa Photo Gallery or Mountaineering Museum might be a brilliant idea. Also one can spend some time interacting with fun loving Sherpa and Rai people there.
Day 05: Rest day for acclimatization
On this day, a trekker can explore the beautiful town as well as do an easy acclimatization walk up Syangboche or Khumjung. After the breakfast, one can hike to Everest View Point Hotel, an ideal place to overview some outstanding mountains such as Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Thamserku etc. The hike can be extended to Khumjung Village or Khunde Village to explore more about the Sherpa people and their lifestyle. Also one can visit the hospital in Khunde and Hillary School in Khumjung.
Day 06: Trek to Dole (4085m)
After walking 2 hrs on a relatively flat trail, one should diverge from main trail to EBC to enter the Gokyo Valley. From the point of diversion, it’s 1.30 hrs climb to reach Mong Danda (which is the birthplace of Saint Lama Sanga Dorje, the reincarnation Lama of Rongbuk Monastery). From Mong Danda, one can have a good look at Dudh Koshi Valley. Afterwards, the trail descends to the Dudh Koshi and reaches Phortse Thanga. And then the trail climbs steeply through rhododendron forests, passing many Kharkas on its way to Tongba (3950m), Gyele (3960m) and finally Dole.
Day 07: Trek to Machhermo (4410m)
The trail climbs through a huge rock at Lhabarma (4330m) and carries on to Luza (4340m). From Luza, the trail continues to climb to Machhermo (4410m) where you can have good views of the mountains.
Day 08: Trek to Gokyo (4750m)
Passing through Machhermo, the trail climbs and reaches Pangka (4390m). Beyond Pangka, the trail drops and again climbs steeply. From there you can see the massive Ngozomba Glacier. You pass from the side of two lakes and finally you arrive at Gokyo. Situated right below Gokyo Ri (5387m), placed in between Ngozomba Glacier and The Third Lake, one can also see the Renjo La Pass right behind The Third Lake.
Day 09: Rest day for acclimatization
In the morning one can have a walk around Gokyo Lake. For a splendid panoramic view climbing Gokyo Ri is a must. It’s better to climb in the afternoon as most of mountains are on the eastern side. From Gokyo, one can see the Everest, but a bit far. One can see 4 out of world’s 6 highest mountains (Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu and Mt. Cho Oyu) from one point. Mt. Cho Oyu and Mt. Ghyachung Kang appear as a big ice wall bordering Tibet. The massive Ngozomba Glacier is right below. One can take a walk to the lakes following the Gokyo Valley further towards north. From Fifth Lake, one will have a magnificent view of Mt. Everest.
Day 10: Trek to Renjo La - Lunde (4300m)
It’s approximately 3 hrs hard walk to arrive to Renjo La (5340m) on the other side of the Third Lake form Gokyo, where you will have a breathtaking view as the reward for your hard work. Afterwards, it’s 2.30 hrs walk down to Lunde. This beautiful alpine valley is a trade route for Tibetan yak caravans heading to Namche Bazaar. It was just recently, in 2003, opened up for trekkers. Rocky spires and glaciers loom beautifully above, often with wispy fast-moving clouds against a blue-blue sky.
Day 11: Trek to Thame (3800m)
On this day, we trek down to Thame, viewing more amazing snow peaks. We may meet Tibetan trader encampments along the way for pictures of a rare lifestyle. About 150m above Thame is the Thame Gompa, a picturesque monastery set among the many homes of Lamas and lay people. It's perched on the side of a hill overlooking the valley.
Day 12: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3450m)
From Thame, we walk up and down, passing through a few Sherpa villages and finally we arrive to Namche Bazaar.
Day 13: Trek to Lukla
Day 14: Fly back to Kathmandu
Day 15: Departure or free for personal activities
Everest Circuit Trek (Everest Base Camp – Cho La – Gokyo – Renjo La)
It’s a long trek that includes the very famous Everest Base Camp Trek, for the excellent panorama from Kala Patthar and Everest Base Camp, hard and less attempted Cho La and Renjo La Passes along with sparkling Gokyo Lakes and beautiful Gokyo Valley and less explored but beautiful Thame Valley.
On this trek, one starts the normal and crowded route to Everest Base Camp. From Everest Base Camp, instead of returning back the same way one diverts his/her route to Gokyo Valley, Cho La Pass. After Exploring Gokyo Valley and the sparkling lakes, there’s another pass over 5000m (Renjo La) to enter Thame Valley and finally to meet the genuine route in Namche Bazaar.
Trek Profile:
| Grade |
: Moderate Hard |
| Avg. walking per day |
: 5 Hrs |
| Maximum Altitude |
: 5545m |
| Best Seasons |
: Feb-May, Oct-Nov |
| Type of Trek |
: Camping/Teahouse |
| Starting Point |
: Lukla |
| Ending Point |
: Lukla |
Suggested Itinerary:
Day 01: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, pick-up & transfer to hotel
Day 02: Kathmandu Valley sightseeing
A day trip around the valley, which is rich in Cultural Heritage, consisting of seven sights listed in World Heritage List.
Day 03: Fly to Lukla (2810m) & trek to Phakding (2610m)
From Kathmandu, we take an early flight to Lukla. It’s a 30 minutes flight with excellent views of Langtang, Rolwaling and Everest mountain regions on the north and beautiful green valleys on the south.
From Lukla, we head north following Dudh Koshi River. On the way, we pass through several beautiful villages and cross a few suspension bridges.
Day 04: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3450m)
After a few ups and downs for 2.30 hrs, we arrive at the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park, where our permits will be checked, and another half an hour walk to Jorsale, which is the last village before Namche Bazaar. After Jorsale, it is approximately 1 hr walk on flat trail and then it is 2 hrs hard climb to Namche Bazaar. At the beginning of the uphill, one can have his/her first sight of Mt. Everest along with Mt. Taboche. Namche Bazaar is one of the most beautiful villages in the Khumbu region with its typical curved shape and excellent vies of Mt. Kongde and Mt. Thamserku. Besides this, there’s a lot more that a trekker can do there, e.g. one can visit the monastery on the western edge of the town or one can take a walk through the beautiful town or visiting the Sherpa Photo Gallery or Mountaineering Museum might be a brilliant idea. Also one can spend some time interacting with fun loving Sherpa and Rai people there.
Day 05: Rest day for acclimatization
On this day, a trekker can explore the beautiful town as well as do an easy acclimatization walk up Syangboche or Khumjung. After the breakfast, one can hike to Everest View Point Hotel, an ideal place to overview some outstanding mountains such as Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Thamserku etc. The hike can be extended to Khumjung Village or Khunde Village to explore more about the Sherpa people and their lifestyle. Also one can visit the hospital in Khunde and Hillary School in Khumjung.
Day 06: Trek to Tengboche (3860m)
A relatively easier trail for first 2 hrs with nice view of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Thamserku and others, we arrive to Kyangjuma and then it’s another 45 minutes steep downhill through the rhododendron forest. And from Fungi Tanga, it’s another 1.30 hrs hard climb but with a great view of beautiful green valley and Mt. Ama Dablam.
Tengboche is a beautiful place with beautiful scenery of green valley and Mt. Kang Taiga towering right above it, as well the biggest monastery in the Khumbu region. On the occasion of Mani Rimdu (A festival that starts at full moon in October), they perform special dances outside the monastery for three days.
Day 07: Trek to Dingboche (4360m)
An excellent walk through the green forest for 1 hr and then we cross the Imja Khola, and start climbing again, approximately 1 hr climb to leads you to another beautiful Sherpa village (Pangboche). From Pangboche, it’s another 3 hrs ups and downs via Shomare and Orsho, and finally we arrive to Dingboche. A spectacular view of Mt. Ama Dablam standing right in front, as well as Mt. Lhotse, Shartse, Island Peak etc. makes the village really impressive.
Day 08: Rest day for acclimatization
As we are already at 4400m on our 5 days walk and we still have to go a long way up, another rest day here is very important regarding acclimatization. Along with the walk around the village, a side trip to a small col on the north of the village (from where one can see Mt. Makalu) or a side trip to Chhukung Valley (A great view as big snow mountains including Mt. Lhotse are very close) is advised.
Day 09: Trek Lobuche (4930m)
As we leave, we start climbing a small col on the north of the village. It’s approximately 1 hr climb, and then it’s a relatively flat trail up to Duglah. From Duglah, it’s a very hard climb (especially because of the thin air) for 1 hr to Lobuche.
Day 10: Trek to Gorak Shep (5180m)
A 2 hrs walk going up and down on the side of Khumbu Glacier, as well crossing the shore of Chang-Ri Glacier, you will get to Gorak Shep. From Gorak Shep, you can only see the tip of Everest, but the pinpointed Nuptse looks awesome.
Day 11: Trek to Everest Base Camp - Gorak Shep
The trail is relatively flat but the thin air makes it a big effort, 2 hrs walk on a very rough trail and 1 hr walk through Khumbu Glacier leads you to Everest Base Camp (5300m), right on the foot of Mt. Khumbutse and Khumbu Ice Fall (which has taken lives of many climbers), is right in front. Everest can not be seen from here, but one can see and hear the Ice Blocks falling frequently from the Khumbu Ice Fall. One can spend a long time, especially in springs (April/May), when there are a lot of climbers with the dream to get themselves to the ‘Top Of The World’. In the end, the trekkers have to go all the way back to Gorak Shep.
Day 12: Trek to Kala Patthar – Lobuche
Kala Patthar, an excellent viewpoint which appears as a small grassy hill from Gorak Shep, is there to be climbed for the spectacular view of Mt. Everest. It is better to arrive at the top of Kala Patthar when the sun is high up (e.g. 9:00 am). One can climb Kala Patthar in the afternoon, but the weather in the mountains is generally clear in the morning, so it is better to do the Kala Patthar in the morning. Starting to climb early in the morning (somewhere around 6.00 am) the grassy slope, the ‘Top Of The World’ starts to appear little by little; though the thin air makes the climbing really hard, with every step of your climbing, you can see a little bit more of Everest. It might take 1.30 hrs to 3 hrs to arrive to the summit of the Kala Patthar which is right below Mt. Pumori. From there, one can see the ‘Top Of The World’ resting on its south-west shoulder, the wall of big white mountains (Mt. Khumbutse, Mt. Lingtren, and Mt. Pumori) bordering Tibet along with Mt. Changtse, which is in Tibet, also pinpointed Nuptse is standing tall in the east, as well Mt. Chang-Ri and Chang-Ri Glacier on the west, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Kang Taiga, Mt. Thamserku, Mt. Taboche, Mt. Cholatse and Mt. Lobuche make the circle complete. As well, one can also have a look at Everest Base Camp, Khumbu Ice Fall and huge Khumbu Glaciers. And in the end, we trek back to Gorak Shep and continue downwards to Lobuche.
Day 13: Trek to Dzongla (4830m)
It’s approximately 3.30 hrs walk on a dry and grassy trail to reach Dzongla above which an excellent pass (Cho La) is waiting for us. Dzongla has a magnificent view with Mt. Cholatse towering on south-west and Mt. Lobuche on the north.
Day 14: Trek to Cho La (5310m) – Gokyo (4750m)
It’s a long and hard day, an early start is needed. At first, it is 45 minutes walk on a flat and grassy trail before a steep climb through rocks for 2 hrs and finally another 30 minutes walk on a relatively flat trail, but above 5000m. The breathtaking view from the pass compensates the hard work done to get there. From the pass, it’s another 1 hr steep walk (which is a real test for normal trekkers) and another 45 minutes uphill and finally 1 hr down to reach the first settlement after the pass (Thangnak). Afterwards, it’s another 2 hrs walk to reach Gokyo. Gokyo situated right below Gokyo Ri (5387m), placed in between Ngozomba Glacier and The Third Lake. One can also see the Renjo La Pass right behind The Third Lake.
Day 15: Rest day for acclimatization
In the morning one can have a walk around Gokyo Lake. For a splendid panoramic view climbing Gokyo Ri is a must. It’s better to climb in the afternoon as most of mountains are on the eastern side. From Gokyo, one can see the Everest, but a bit far. One can see 4 out of world’s 6 highest mountains (Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu and Mt. Cho Oyu) from one point. Mt. Cho Oyu and Mt. Ghyachung Kang appear as a big ice wall bordering Tibet. The massive Ngozomba Glacier is right below. One can take a walk to the lakes following the Gokyo Valley further towards north. From Fifth Lake, one will have a magnificent view of Mt. Everest.
Day 16: Trek to Renjo La – Lunde (4300m)
It’s approximately 3 hrs hard walk to arrive to Renjo La (5340m) on the other side of the Third Lake form Gokyo, where you will have a breathtaking view as the reward for your hard work. Afterwards, it’s 2.30 hrs walk down to Lunde. This beautiful alpine valley is a trade route for Tibetan yak caravans heading to Namche Bazaar. It was just recently, in 2003, opened up for trekkers. Rocky spires and glaciers loom beautifully above, often with wispy fast-moving clouds against a blue-blue sky.
Day 17: Trek to Thame (3800m)
On this day, we trek down to Thame, viewing more amazing snow peaks. We may meet Tibetan trader encampments along the way for pictures of a rare lifestyle. About 150m above Thame is the Thame Gompa, a picturesque monastery set among the many homes of Lamas and lay people. It's perched on the side of a hill overlooking the valley.
Day 18: Trek to Namche Bazaar
From Thame, we walk up and down, passing through a few Sherpa villages and finally we arrive to Namche Bazaar.
Day 19: Trek to Phakding
Day 20: Trek to Lukla
Day 21: Fly back to Kathmandu
Day 22: Departure or free for personal activities
Gokyo - Cho La Pass Trek
 Trekking to Gokyo Valley, Cho La Pass, Everest Base Camp is one of the most dramatic treks in Nepal, as it combines classic close-up views of Mt. Everest, sparkling Gokyo Lakes, views from Gokyo Ri, a challenging Pass (Cho La) which is rarely attempted by the trekking groups, huge Ngozomba Glacier, Khumbu Glacier, Chang Ri Glacier etc.
Trek Profile:
| Grade |
: Moderate Hard |
| Avg. walking per day |
: 5 Hrs |
| Maximum Altitude |
: 5545m |
| Best Seasons |
: Feb-May, Oct-Nov |
| Type of Trek |
: Camping/Teahouse |
| Starting Point |
: Lukla |
| Ending Point |
: Lukla |
Suggested Itinerary:
Day 01: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, pick-up & transfer to hotel
Day 02: Kathmandu Valley sightseeing
A day trip around the valley, which is rich in Cultural Heritage, consisting of seven sights listed in World Heritage List.
Day 03: Fly to Lukla (2810m) & trek to Phakding (2610m)
From Kathmandu, we take an early flight to Lukla. It’s a 30 minutes flight with excellent views of Langtang, Rolwaling and Everest mountain regions on the north and beautiful green valleys on the south.
From Lukla, we head north following Dudh Koshi River. On the way, we pass through several beautiful villages and cross a few suspension bridges.
Day 04: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3450m)
After a few ups and downs for 2.30 hrs, we arrive at the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park, where our permits will be checked, and another half an hour walk to Jorsale, which is the last village before Namche Bazaar. After Jorsale, it is approximately 1 hr walk on flat trail and then it is 2 hrs hard climb to Namche Bazaar. At the beginning of the uphill, one can have his/her first sight of Mt. Everest along with Mt. Taboche. Namche Bazaar is one of the most beautiful villages in the Khumbu region with its typical curved shape and excellent vies of Mt. Kongde and Mt. Thamserku. Besides this, there’s a lot more that a trekker can do there, e.g. one can visit the monastery on the western edge of the town or one can take a walk through the beautiful town or visiting the Sherpa Photo Gallery or Mountaineering Museum might be a brilliant idea. Also one can spend some time interacting with fun loving Sherpa and Rai people there.
Day 05: Rest day for acclimatization
On this day, a trekker can explore the beautiful town as well as do an easy acclimatization walk up Syangboche or Khumjung. After the breakfast, one can hike to Everest View Point Hotel, an ideal place to overview some outstanding mountains such as Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Thamserku etc. The hike can be extended to Khumjung Village or Khunde Village to explore more about the Sherpa people and their lifestyle. Also one can visit the hospital in Khunde and Hillary School in Khumjung.
Day 06: Trek to Dole (4085m)
After walking 2 hrs on a relatively flat trail, one should diverge from main trail to EBC to enter the Gokyo Valley. From the point of diversion, it’s 1.30 hrs climb to reach Mong Danda (which is the birthplace of Saint Lama Sanga Dorje, the reincarnation Lama of Rongbuk Monastery). From Mong Danda, one can have a good look at Dudh Koshi Valley. Afterwards, the trail descends to the Dudh Koshi and reaches Phortse Thanga. And then the trail climbs steeply through rhododendron forests, passing many Kharkas on its way to Tongba (3950m), Gyele (3960m) and finally Dole.
Day 07: Trek to Machhermo (4410m)
The trail climbs through a huge rock at Lhabarma (4330m) and carries on to Luza (4340m). From Luza, the trail continues to climb to Machhermo (4410m) where you can have good views of the mountains.
Day 08: Trek to Gokyo (4750m)
Passing through Machhermo, the trail climbs and reaches Pangka (4390m). Beyond Pangka, the trail drops and again climbs steeply. From there you can see the massive Ngozomba Glacier. You pass from the side of two lakes and finally you arrive at Gokyo. Situated right below Gokyo Ri (5387m), placed in between Ngozomba Glacier and The Third Lake, one can also see the Renjo La Pass right behind The Third Lake.
Day 09: Rest day for acclimatization
In the morning one can have a walk around Gokyo Lake. For a splendid panoramic view climbing Gokyo Ri is a must. It’s better to climb in the afternoon as most of mountains are on the eastern side. From Gokyo, one can see the Everest, but a bit far. One can see 4 out of world’s 6 highest mountains (Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu and Mt. Cho Oyu) from one point. Mt. Cho Oyu and Mt. Ghyachung Kang appear as a big ice wall bordering Tibet. The massive Ngozomba Glacier is right below. One can take a walk to the lakes following the Gokyo Valley further towards north. From Fifth Lake, one will have a magnificent view of Mt. Everest.
Day 10: Trek to Thangnak (4690m)
From Gokyo, the trail descends, looking at the views of the fine mountains and natural beauty. We cross the Ngozomba Glacier and arrive to Thangnak, which is considered as the base of Cho La Pass.
Day 11: Trek to Cho La Pass (5310m) - Dzongla (4830m)
The day begins with a climb on a grassy trail. Walking 1.30 hrs on this grassy trail, we arrive to the top of the hill from where one can see the Cho La Pass right in front. From here one has to descend all the way to the glacier below. After crossing the glacier, it’s a real test for the trekkers - a very steep walk on rocks, which sometimes is covered with ice, will get you in 2 hrs to Cho La Pass, a narrow pass with a magnificent view. From the pass, we descend a long way through the rocks and finally, there is a little bit grassy trail to arrive at Dzongla, a beautiful view of Mt. Lobuche and Mt. Cholatse towering right there.
Day 12: Trek to Lobuche (4930m)
The trail continues along the grassy hills from Dzongla, offering you splendid views of Mt. Pumori, Mt. Lingtren, Mt. Khumbutse and Mt. Nuptse, before you reach Lobuche.
Day 13: Trek to Gorak Shep (5180m)
A 2 hrs walk going up and down on the side of Khumbu Glacier, as well crossing the shore of Chang-Ri Glacier, you will get to Gorak Shep. From Gorak Shep, you can only see the tip of Everest, but the pinpointed Nuptse looks awesome.
Day 14: Trek to Everest Base Camp - Gorak Shep
The trail is relatively flat but the thin air makes it a big effort, 2 hrs walk on a very rough trail and 1 hr walk through Khumbu Glacier leads you to Everest Base Camp (5300m), right on the foot of Mt. Khumbutse and Khumbu Ice Fall (which has taken lives of many climbers), is right in front. Everest can not be seen from here, but one can see and hear the Ice Blocks falling frequently from the Khumbu Ice Fall. One can spend a long time, especially in springs (April/May), when there are a lot of climbers with the dream to get themselves to the ‘Top Of The World’. In the end, the trekkers have to go all the way back to Gorak Shep.
Day 15: Trek to Kala Patthar - Dingboche (4360m)
Kala Patthar, an excellent viewpoint which appears as a small grassy hill from Gorak Shep, is there to be climbed for the spectacular view of Mt. Everest. It is better to arrive at the top of Kala Patthar when the sun is high up (e.g. 9:00 am). One can climb Kala Patthar in the afternoon, but the weather in the mountains is generally clear in the morning, so it is better to do the Kala Patthar in the morning. Starting to climb early in the morning (somewhere around 6.00 am) the grassy slope, the ‘Top Of The World’ starts to appear little by little; though the thin air makes the climbing really hard, with every step of your climbing, you can see a little bit more of Everest. It might take 1.30 hrs to 3 hrs to arrive to the summit of the Kala Patthar which is right below Mt. Pumori. From there, one can see the ‘Top Of The World’ resting on its south-west shoulder, the wall of big white mountains (Mt. Khumbutse, Mt. Lingtren, and Mt. Pumori) bordering Tibet along with Mt. Changtse, which is in Tibet, also pinpointed Nuptse is standing tall in the east, as well Mt. Chang-Ri and Chang-Ri Glacier on the west, Mt. Ama Dablam, Mt. Kang Taiga, Mt. Thamserku, Mt. Taboche, Mt. Cholatse and Mt. Lobuche make the circle complete. As well, one can have a look at Everest Base Camp, Khumbu Ice Fall and huge Khumbu Glaciers. Afterwards, it’s time to get down to Gorak Shep and continue downwards to Dingboche. From Dingboche, one can enjoy the panoramic view of Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Shartse, Island Peak etc. on the east, as well Mt. Ama Dablam standing tall on the south.
Day 16: Trek to Tengboche (3860m)
Walking 1.30 hrs on a relatively flat and grassy trail you arrive to Shomare. From Shomare, it’s another 1 hr ups and downs till Pangboche. From Pangboche, we descend for half an hour and cross the Imja Khola. After that, it’s 30 minutes walk on a flat trail and another 30 minutes climb through rhododendron forest to Tengboche. A magnificent view of green valley and Mt. Kang Taiga towering behind, as well the biggest monastery in Khumbu region are the main features of Tengboche Village. On Mani Rimdu (A festival that starts at full moon in October), they perform special dances outside the monastery for three days.
Day 17: Trek to Namche Bazaar
From Tengboche, we descend for 1 hr and cross Dudh Koshi River to reach Fungi Tanga and from there it’s another 1.30 hrs climb to reach the point from where the trail to Gokyo Valley diverges from main trail to EBC. From there, we continue our trail to Namche Bazaar.
Day 18: Trek to Phakding
Day 19: Trek to Lukla
Day 20: Fly back to Kathmandu
Day 21: Departure or free for personal activities
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