EVEREST BASE CAMP(EBC) & GOKYO LAKES TREK – 17D/16N – A DREAM TREK FOR EVERYONE

Altitude: 1,350m/4,428ft

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, the vibrant capital and cultural epicenter of Nepal, expect a warm welcome and seamless transfer to your hotel. Later in the evening, prepare for a comprehensive briefing on the final details of your trek, followed by an early night’s rest in anticipation of an exciting day ahead.

Altitude: 2,800m/9184ft (Lukla) & 2,652m/8,698ft (Phakding)
Walking Distance: 8km (3-4 hours) 
Flight time: 15 min from Ramecchap
Drive time: 4 hours & 30mins (Kathmandu to Ramecchap)

Following a brief morning flight to Lukla, you’ll meet your guide and porter to commence your trek. Beginning with a leisurely stroll through Chaurikharka village, you’ll gradually descend towards Dudhkoshi Ghat (2,530m/8,300ft). The trail meanders alongside the Dudhkoshi River until reaching Phakding (2,652m/8,700ft), our accommodation for the night to aid in acclimatization. Take advantage of your leisure time in Phakding, a well-known rest stop along the route.

Altitude: 3,440m/11,283ft
Walking Distance: 10-12km (5-6 hours)

After enjoying breakfast in Phakding, we’ll prepare for the trek to Namche Bazaar, renowned as the largest Sherpa village in Nepal. Our journey begins by crossing the Dudhkoshi River via an expansive suspension bridge, followed by a scenic traverse through a pine forest to reach Monjo, approximately two hours away. Soon after, we’ll reach the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park for a quick permit check before descending to the Dudh Kosi River, where we’ll spot Mani stones along the way en route to Jorsale. Lunch awaits us here before we tackle the uphill climb to Namche. Along the riverbank, we’ll encounter two crossings, including the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge. Although the ascent to our resting place is challenging, the reward of witnessing Everest’s majestic presence from Namche Bazaar will make it all worthwhile.

Altitude: 3,440m/11,283ft

At this juncture, we pause for a well-deserved break! Today is dedicated to rest, allowing our bodies to acclimate to the high altitude. There’s an optional two-hour hike to Everest View Point, offering an uphill trek that aids in acclimatization. Alternatively, you can spend the day exploring Namche Bazaar. Visit the Sherpa museum for insights into Sherpa culture and mountaineering history. On Saturdays, the Hatt Bazaar opens, providing a glimpse into the local marketplace. This market is part of the larger Namche Bazaar, a bustling shopping hub offering a wide array of trekking and mountaineering gear and attire.

Altitude: 3,700m/12,139ft
Walking Distance: 10km (6 hours)

After a hearty breakfast in Namche Bazaar, we’re energized for another day of trekking towards Everest Base Camp! Unforgettable vistas of the Himalayas – featuring Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kwangde – await us, promising breathtaking highlights along the way. Our next stop, Phortse, renowned as one of the most picturesque locations in the Everest region, boasts legendary views, notably of Ama Dablam.

Altitude: 4,400m/14,435ft
Walking Distance: 11km (6 hours)

Today’s trail runs alongside the canyon of the mighty Imja Khol River, known for its striking glacial blue waters. We’ll embark on a gradual ascent to Pangboche, the largest Sherpa settlement in the region, offering a fascinating glimpse into typical Sherpa village life. Here, there’s a wonderful opportunity to share a meal with locals. For the adventurous, a short hike to the historic Pangboche monastery, one of the region’s oldest, awaits. In the afternoon, expect a challenging trek as we traverse dry, barren mountainscapes en route to Dingboche.

Altitude: 4,400m/14,435ft (Dingboche)

Seize this opportunity to rejuvenate before the final stretch of our journey! Dedicate a full day to discovering Dingboche and its neighboring valleys of Chhukung and Imja. Imja Valley connects with Island Peak, the high passes of Amphu Laptsa, and Makalu Barun National Park. Opting for a trek through these valleys promises breathtaking views, but prioritizing relaxation is paramount today. Resting adequately is crucial, preparing us for tomorrow’s penultimate ascent.

Altitude: 4,900m/16,076ft (Lobuche)
Walking Distance: 11-12 km (6-7 hours)

From this point onward, the trek will gradually become more challenging as we ascend to higher altitudes. We’ll pass through Dungla, preceded by a strenuous, steep climb to the summit of a lofty hill. Here, memorial stupas honor climbers and trekkers who lost their lives on Everest. Continuing on, our journey traverses rugged mountain terrain to Lobuche, a quaint settlement offering breathtaking vistas of Mt. Lobuche, Mt. Pumari, and Nuptse. Be prepared for a chilly night ahead, as we are now nearly three miles above sea level, where evenings can be quite cold.

Altitude: 5180m/16,994ft (Gorekshep) & 5364m/17598 (EBC)
Walking Distance: 15km (6-8 hours)

This marks the pinnacle of our journey! Our significant day begins with a relatively straightforward trek from Lobuche to Gorekshep. The subsequent path to Everest Base Camp becomes more challenging, navigating rocky dunes and moraine, which are accumulations of unconsolidated glacial debris. En route, we’ll encounter the renowned Khumbu Glacier and icefall, situated on Everest’s slopes. Upon reaching Base Camp, a highlight of our trek, you may have the opportunity (during the spring climbing season) to interact with climbers embarking on their summit attempts. Capture unforgettable moments with your camera amidst the awe-inspiring scenery. As the afternoon sunlight fades, we’ll return to Gorekshep, eagerly seeking rest and relaxation after an arduous and eventful day.

Altitude: Kalapathar 5545m/18192ft, Dzonga 4840m/15879ft
Walking Distance: 12km and 6-7 hrs.

Before dawn breaks, we’ll rise to embark on a trek towards Kalapathar, translating to “black rock,” for an enchanting sunrise over Mt. Everest. As the day’s first light graces the horizon, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking panorama of Nuptse Nup, Changtse, and Lhotse. This may very well be the highlight of your entire journey, offering the perfect opportunity to capture stunning photographs of Everest and its neighboring peaks. Following this unforgettable experience, we’ll return to Gorekshep for breakfast before continuing our journey onwards to Dzongla.

Altitude: Cho La 5364m/17598ft, Thaknak 4358m/14298ft
Walking Distance: 12km and 7-8 hrs.

This day could potentially pose the greatest challenge of the trek as you ascend over the pass. However, having already completed the visit to Everest Base Camp, you should be acclimatized to trekking at high altitudes and feeling more resilient. In case of inclement weather, crossing the pass may prove challenging. While crampons are typically unnecessary, microspikes can be beneficial if weather conditions deteriorate. The climb to the summit is demanding, but the breathtaking views awaiting you make every effort worthwhile.

Altitude: Gokyo 4750m/15584ft
Walking Distance: 9 Km and 4-5 hrs.

Altitude: Gokyo Ri (5,357m)
Walking Distance: 7km (5 or 6 hours)

We’ll embark on an early morning hike to the summit of Gokyo Ri, standing at 5,357m. The panoramic views from this vantage point might even surpass those from Kala Patthar. Before you lies a majestic vista encompassing four of the world’s 14 highest peaks: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Despite their distance, the views of Everest are remarkable, and you’ll have the opportunity to gaze down upon one of the largest glaciers in the Himalayas below. Following our descent, we’ll return to the tea house for breakfast and commence our trek downhill through the Gokyo Valley, eventually reaching Machermo, where we will spend the night.

Altitude: 3,440m/11,283ft (Namche)
Walking Distance: 15km (7 to 8 hours).

Today’s trek entails a relatively lengthy journey, but the trail is well-defined and predominantly downhill, which eases the challenge. Descending through the Gokyo Valley, you’ll be treated to picturesque views of the surrounding peaks. Eventually, we’ll intersect with the main route leading to Everest Base Camp before continuing onward to Namche. We’ll conclude the day with an overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.

Altitude: 2,800m/9,184ft
Walking Distance: 16km (6-7 hours)

Following breakfast, we begin our trek towards the Hillary Suspension Bridge, traversing through numerous local villages along the way. Upon reaching Lukla, we’ll spend the evening at our final Tea House, marking the end of our journey. Traditionally, this occasion calls for a celebratory gathering with our trekking crew—a testament to the remarkable teamwork and perseverance that led us to this momentous achievement. As we reflect on our journey, tonight’s stay on the mountain carries a bittersweet undertone, marking our final night amidst these awe-inspiring surroundings.

Altitude: 1350m/4428ft
Flight time: 35 min

In the morning, you’ll embark on a short flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, marking both the beginning and end of your journey. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for some well-deserved personal time to reflect on your Himalayan adventure. Later in the evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner at one of Kathmandu’s finest Nepalese restaurants, eagerly anticipating your feedback on the trip.

Altitude: 1,350m/4,428ft

On your final day in Nepal, enjoy a hearty breakfast before indulging in some last-minute shopping in Kathmandu. Rest assured, we’ll ensure you reach Kathmandu International Airport with ample time before your departure flight. As we bid our farewells, armed with cherished memories and stunning photographs, you’ll carry with you the warmth of our shared experiences to share with your loved ones.