The Gokyo Lake Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most beautiful and rewarding trekking routes in Nepal. It’s more than just a walk to the foot of the world’s highest mountain it's a rich, high-altitude journey that weaves together dramatic landscapes, cultural depth, and spiritual silence in some of the most stunning corners of the Himalayas.
This trek is designed for those who want to see Everest, but also crave something beyond the usual path something quieter, more varied, and deeply scenic. It combines the legendary Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) with the pristine beauty of the Gokyo Valley, home to a series of stunning glacial lakes and flanked by some of the tallest peaks on Earth, including Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, and of course, Mount Everest itself.
Your journey begins with a thrilling flight into Lukla, a small mountain airstrip perched high in the Khumbu region. From there, you’ll follow trails through lush forests, Sherpa villages, and yak pastures as you slowly ascend toward higher ground. The first few days take you through Phakding, Namche Bazaar, and Dole, allowing your body to acclimatize while giving you time to take in the local culture and mountain lifestyle.
The Gokyo Lakes, sitting at over 4,700 meters, are the crown jewel of this part of the trek—turquoise, mirror-like waters fed by glaciers, surrounded by snow-covered peaks. From Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), you’ll get a panoramic view that’s often considered even more spectacular than the classic viewpoint of Kala Patthar. The sight of Everest and its surrounding giants from here is breathtaking in both scale and serenity.
The adventure doesn’t stop there. After exploring Gokyo, you’ll take on the Cho La Pass (5,420 m)—a challenging but incredibly rewarding high-mountain crossing that links the Gokyo Valley with the traditional Everest Base Camp route. From here, the trail winds through Lobuche and Gorak Shep, leading you to the foot of Mount Everest itself, where climbers prepare for the summit and trekkers come to stand in awe of Earth’s most iconic peak.
No Everest journey is complete without a sunrise climb to Kala Patthar (5,545 m), the best viewpoint of Mount Everest up close. As the golden morning light hits the ice and stone of the Himalayan giants, you’ll understand why people call this a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Throughout the trek, you’ll stay in local teahouses, enjoy hearty meals, and be welcomed by the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people, whose resilience and kindness give life to these remote mountains. The trail is filled with prayer flags, spinning wheels, ancient monasteries, and a spiritual stillness that’s hard to describe until you feel it for yourself.
Combines the beauty of Everest Base Camp with the less-crowded Gokyo Valley
Offers two of the best viewpoints in Nepal: Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar
Crosses Cho La Pass, adding adventure and variety to the route
Ideal for trekkers seeking both iconic highlights and off-the-beaten-path experiences
The trek is best done in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the skies are clear, the views are sharp, and the trails are at their best.
The Gokyo Lake Everest Base Camp Trek is not just a physical challenge it’s a deeply personal journey into the world’s highest mountains, where every turn of the trail brings new perspectives, both outward and inward. If you’re ready for something extraordinary, this trek promises adventure, beauty, and a lifetime of memories.
Acclimatization is critical: This trek reaches altitudes over 5,500 meters. Our itinerary includes rest days and gradual ascents to help your body adjust to the altitude. Walk slow, stay hydrated, and listen to your guide.
Fitness matters: While no technical climbing is required, the trek is physically demanding. Be prepared for long days of hiking (5–8 hours daily) over rugged and sometimes snowy terrain, especially while crossing Cho La Pass.
Permits are required: You’ll need a Sagarmatha National Park Permit, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit, and a TIMS card. All of these will be arranged by our team at Great Adventure.
Weather can change quickly: Bring appropriate gear for cold, wind, and snow, even during peak seasons. Layers, a good down jacket, and waterproof clothing are essential.
Pack smart, travel light: A porter will carry your main bag (usually up to 10–12 kg), while you’ll carry a daypack with water, snacks, and essentials.
Connectivity is limited: Wi-Fi is available in some teahouses for a fee but is often slow. Cell signals are available in certain areas, but expect to be offline much of the time—it's part of the magic.
Travel insurance is a must: You must have insurance that covers trekking at high altitudes and emergency evacuation by helicopter if needed.
Your journey begins as you arrive in Kathmandu, the vibrant capital city of Nepal, located at about fourteen hundred meters above sea level. Upon arrival, our team will warmly welcome you and take you to your comfortable hotel where you can relax and recover from your travels. In the evening, you may explore the lively streets of Thamel or attend a short trek briefing to prepare for the adventure ahead.
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Early morning, you will take a scenic flight to Lukla, which lies at an altitude of around two thousand eight hundred and sixty meters. From Lukla, your trek begins as you walk through the Dudh Koshi river valley, passing small villages and terraced fields before arriving at the village of Phakding for your first night on the trail.
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Today’s trek involves a steady ascent through pine forests and across suspension bridges, leading you into the heart of Sagarmatha National Park. After a rewarding climb, you will reach Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa market town nestled at three thousand four hundred and forty meters. This vibrant village is the cultural hub of the region.
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To help your body adjust to the increasing altitude, today is a rest and acclimatization day. You can explore the local market, visit the Sherpa museum, or take a short hike to viewpoints nearby that offer stunning views of Everest and Ama Dablam. This day helps you prepare for the higher altitudes to come.
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Leaving Namche, your trail heads north into quieter valleys. You will trek through forests and small villages, gradually climbing to Dole, located at about four thousand and thirty-eight meters. The serene environment and spectacular mountain views make this a memorable day.
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Today’s hike continues upward through alpine meadows and past icy streams to reach Machhermo at an elevation of around four thousand four hundred and seventy meters. The peaceful village is a perfect place to rest and enjoy the surrounding towering peaks.
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Your path leads to the beautiful Gokyo Valley, home to a series of glacial lakes. The village of Gokyo is situated beside the third and largest lake at roughly four thousand eight hundred meters. The turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains create a breathtaking setting.
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Early in the morning, you will climb Gokyo Ri, a prominent peak that offers one of the most stunning panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. After soaking in the vistas, you descend and continue your trek to the small settlement of Thagnak at about four thousand seven hundred and fifty meters.
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Today you face one of the most challenging parts of the trek—the crossing of Cho La Pass, one of the highest passes in the region at five thousand four hundred and twenty meters. The climb is tough but rewarding, with incredible views of glaciers and mountains. After descending, you will reach Dzongla, a remote mountain village where you’ll spend the night.
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From Dzongla, you will trek toward Lobuche, gradually ascending to nearly five thousand meters. The terrain here is rocky and barren but surrounded by magnificent peaks. Lobuche is a key stop for trekkers heading to Everest Base Camp.
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Today is the highlight of the trek as you journey to Everest Base Camp, located at five thousand three hundred and sixty-four meters. Walking amid the massive glaciers and rocky landscapes, you’ll witness the base camp where climbers prepare for the summit push. After spending time there, you will return to Gorak Shep to rest.
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Before sunrise, you will climb Kala Patthar, the best viewpoint for an up-close view of Mount Everest. Standing at over five thousand six hundred meters, this spot offers breathtaking scenes of the mountain range. After descending to Gorak Shep for breakfast, you will continue trekking down to Pheriche at about four thousand three hundred and seventy meters.
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You begin the journey back to lower elevations, trekking through familiar paths as you return to Namche Bazaar. The walk is long but less strenuous, and you’ll enjoy warmer temperatures and a well-deserved rest in the lively town.
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On this day, you will retrace your steps to Lukla. The scenery feels different as you celebrate the completion of your trek with the company of your guide and porter. Lukla is a welcoming spot to relax and prepare for your flight.
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A morning flight returns you to Kathmandu where you can relax in your hotel or explore the city’s rich culture and history one last time. This day is ideal for rest and shopping before your journey home.
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Your unforgettable adventure concludes as you are transferred to the airport for your international flight home. You leave with memories of the towering Himalayas, new friendships, and a deep connection to the mountains.
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If this itinerary doesn't suit you and you'd like to create your own, let's talk now!
During the Gokyo Lake – Everest Base Camp Trek, you’ll be staying at local teahouses that provide freshly prepared meals throughout the journey. While food options are more limited the higher you go, meals are warm, filling, and designed to keep you energized in the mountains.
You can expect:
Breakfast: Toast, chapati, eggs, porridge, pancakes, muesli, Tibetan bread, and hot drinks like tea or coffee.
Lunch & Dinner: Traditional dal bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables) is the most popular meal, offering good nutrition and unlimited refills. You’ll also find options like noodles, fried rice, pasta, soups, momos (dumplings), and occasionally pizza or yak cheese dishes.
All meals are vegetarian by default at high altitudes for freshness and health safety. Meat is available in lower villages, but it's often carried up without refrigeration, so we advise avoiding it beyond Namche Bazaar.
Accommodation on this trek is provided in mountain teahouses, which are simple but cozy lodges run by local families. Rooms typically have:
Twin beds with mattresses and blankets (bring your own sleeping bag for warmth)
Shared toilets (mostly squat-style; some western-style in larger villages)
Dining areas with communal stoves for warmth
Hot showers (available in most places for an extra fee)
Rooms are basic, often unheated, and get colder the higher you go, but the hospitality is always warm. Power outlets for charging devices are available in dining areas in most teahouses (charges may apply).
We have prepared a list of scheduled departure dates for the Gokyo Lake Everest Base Camp Trek throughout the trekking seasons. You’re welcome to choose any date that fits your travel plans. If none of the listed dates work for you, simply let us know your preferred timing, we’ll be happy to arrange a custom departure that works best for your schedule.
As a personalized trekking company in Nepal, we specialize in organizing private departures to offer you a more flexible and tailored experience. However, if you’d prefer to join a group trek, just let us know. We can easily organize a group departure or match you with others looking to trek on similar dates.
Our goal is to make sure your Himalayan adventure fits your style, pace, and preferences.
Other Information (At a Glance)
Trek Duration: 18 Days (Kathmandu to Kathmandu)
Max Altitude: 5,545 meters (Kala Patthar)
Trek Grade: Challenging
Best Seasons: Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November)
Accommodation: Teahouses/lodges during the trek, hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Full board on trek, breakfast in Kathmandu
Transportation: Domestic flights (Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu)
Group Size: 1 to 12 (private & group options available)
Required Permits: Sagarmatha National Park, Khumbu Rural Municipality, TIMS
Emergency Support: Guide with first aid; helicopter rescue coordination if needed (via insurance)
Electricity & Charging: Available in most teahouses (extra cost)
Internet Access: Limited Wi-Fi available in some areas (paid)
This is a moderately challenging trek. It doesn’t require technical climbing, but you’ll be walking for several hours each day, often at high altitude. A good level of fitness and some hiking experience help a lot.
The best times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is clear and the views are at their best.
There is a chance of altitude sickness because the trek goes over 5,000 meters. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days to help your body adjust. Walking slowly, drinking water, and listening to your guide are key.
Yes, but it's limited. Some teahouses offer Wi-Fi and charging facilities, usually for a small fee. The higher you go, the more expensive and less reliable these services become.
You’ll need a Sagarmatha National Park entry permit, a Khumbu Rural Municipality permit, and a TIMS card. These are included in your package and arranged by your trekking company.
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