Nepal
17 Days Everest Base Camp trek visa Gokyo Lake
Overview
Discover the 17-day Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake. Explore Sherpa villages, cross Cho La Pass, and visit Everest Base Camp. A perfect adventure for nature lovers and cultural explorers!
Embark on an incredible 17-day Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake, combining two of the most iconic treks in the Everest region. Hike through picturesque Sherpa villages, lush forests, and ancient monasteries. Witness the stunning turquoise waters of Gokyo Lakes, cross the challenging Cho La Pass, and finally reach the iconic Everest Base Camp. This trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making it an unforgettable adventure for trekking enthusiasts.
Why you'll love 17 Days Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lake ?
- Experience Majestic Views: Journey through the Gokyo Lake route and witness breathtaking panoramas of the Himalayan peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Revel in the beauty of pristine lakes, expansive glaciers, and towering mountains that adorn the path.
- Exclusive Adventure: Opting for the Gokyo Lake trek offers a distinctive and less crowded route to the Everest Base Camp, providing trekkers with a unique experience. Explore the serene Gokyo Valley, away from the crowds, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the region's ambiance.
- Immerse in Sherpa Culture: Delve into the vibrant Sherpa culture and traditions along the trail, as you visit local villages, ancient monasteries, and engage with friendly Sherpa communities. Gain valuable insights into their way of life, enriching your cultural journey.
- Conquer High Passes: Embark on an adventurous journey crossing high mountain passes like Cho La Pass, adding excitement to your trek. These challenging passes offer trekkers a sense of achievement and a chance to test their hiking skills amidst stunning mountain vistas.
- Capture Unforgettable Moments: The Gokyo Lake route presents endless opportunities for nature enthusiasts and photographers to capture stunning images. From glistening lakes and majestic glaciers to colorful prayer flags against the backdrop of towering peaks, each moment is a photographic gem, etching lasting memories for trekkers.
Notes:
- Rates are per person on twin/double sharing, inclusive of all taxes.
- Optional activities are subject to availability and can be done if time permits and of interest.
- Sightseeing timings may vary based on local operator decisions, weather, and traffic.
- No refund for cancellations after the tour starts.
- Supplementary charges apply for guides in Spanish, German, French, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, etc. as per request.
Itinerary
On arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by a representative from Destination Nepal Tours & Travels Pvt. Ltd. You will then be transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. Depending on your arrival time, you can explore the city on your own or relax at your hotel.
Accommodation:
- Hotel [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- There are no Meals included on this day
Distance: Approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles)
Due to changes in the regulations and upgrading at the domestic airport in Kathmandu, flights to Lukla will likely operate out of Manthali Airport in Ramechhap District. This involves a four-hour drive from Kathmandu during the night. The flight from Manthali will depart early in the morning and take 20 minutes.
The trekking route from Lukla to Phakding presents an awe-inspiring journey through the Himalayas, offering adventurers a mesmerizing experience in Nepal's Khumbu region. This scenic trail, an integral part of the renowned Everest Base Camp trek, spans approximately 8 kilometers and can typically be covered in 3-4 hours. With its stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks, quaint villages, suspension bridges, and the tranquil Dudh Koshi River, this trek showcases nature's splendor at every turn. Ideal for both seasoned trekkers and beginners, this trail provides a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. Starting from Lukla's altitude of 2,800 meters and descending to Phakding's elevation of 2,652 meters, trekkers are treated to a manageable yet breathtaking expedition, making it a must-visit for those seeking a remarkable Himalayan adventure.
Accommodation:
- Guest House/Tea House [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) (5-6 hrs treks)
Embark on an exhilarating trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar, a captivating segment of the iconic Everest Base Camp trail. Spanning approximately 9 to 10 kilometers, this scenic journey unfolds over 5 to 6 hours, showcasing a blend of breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and picturesque suspension bridges traversing the Dudh Koshi River. Ascending from Phakding's altitude of around 2,652 meters to the vibrant Namche Bazaar at approximately 3,440 meters, this trek offers an ideal opportunity for trekkers to acclimate while relishing panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. The trail's allure lies in its gradual ascent, allowing adventurers to immerse themselves in nature's splendor and experience the warm hospitality of local tea houses and lodges along the way.
Accommodation:
- Guest House/Tea House [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
The acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar is a crucial part of the Everest Base Camp trek itinerary, aimed at aiding trekkers in adjusting to the higher altitude and reducing the risk of altitude-related sickness like AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Located at an elevation of approximately 3,440 meters (11,286 feet), Namche Bazaar serves as an ideal spot for acclimatization due to its amenities and scenic surroundings. Trekkers typically spend an extra day in Namche Bazaar to allow their bodies to adapt to the altitude before ascending further. During this rest day, hikers have the opportunity to explore the local Sherpa culture, visit the Sherpa Museum, stroll through the vibrant markets, and enjoy panoramic views of Everest and other surrounding peaks from various viewpoints like the Everest View Hotel or the Sagarmatha National Park Headquarters. It's essential to stay hydrated, rest, and avoid strenuous activities to ensure a safe and successful trekking experience in the high altitudes of the Everest region.
Accommodation:
- Guest House/Tea House [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) (5-6 hrs treks)
After adjusting to the altitude in Namche Bazaar, our journey leads us towards Dole, marking a departure from the traditional Everest Base Camp route. Unlike the classic EBC trek, which heads towards Tengboche, our path is characterized by rocky terrain and varying elevations.
After approximately two hours of trekking, we'll arrive at Mong La Pass (3957m / 12982ft), offering breathtaking vistas of Mt. Ama Dablam (6,812m / 22,349ft) and Mt. Khumbila (5,761m / 18,901ft). Continuing onwards, we'll descend through lush forests adorned with pine and rhododendron, passing by the riverside village of Phortse Tenga before reaching our day's destination at Dole."
Accommodation:
- Guest House/Tea House [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) (5-6 hrs treks)
Moving onward from Dole, our ascent takes us to picturesque meadows used as yak pastures, adorned with shrines and prayer flags. In the summer, these pastures are lush green, hosting grazing yaks. However, come winter, the landscape turns barren, prompting locals to descend to milder climes.
Gazing ahead, the majestic Mt. Cho Oyu, the world's fifth-highest peak, graces the horizon. Continuing our journey, we pass through Lapahrma village and Luja before reaching our ultimate destination, Machhermo.
Accommodation:
- Guest House/Tea House [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 5.7 kilometers (3.5 miles) (4-5 hrs treks)
"Today, we embark on a captivating excursion to explore the enchanting Gokyo Lakes. After a brief hour-long trek, we traverse elevated grazing lands to reach Phanga. Here, amidst this stunning landscape, you'll encounter memorials commemorating those who lost their lives in landslides.
Continuing our ascent, the paths gradually narrow, leading us to the outlet of the first and smallest of the five major Gokyo Lakes. Beyond lies Gokyo village, nestled near the third Gokyo Lake, standing as one of Nepal's highest settlements. Amidst the picturesque Gokyo Valley, a prominent uphill landmark awaits: the renowned Gokyo Ri viewpoint."
Accommodation:
- Guest House/Tea House [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) (1-2 hrs treks)
On the eighth day, we've planned a crucial acclimatization day in Gokyo, allowing us to explore the captivating Gokyo Valley. Our adventure includes a must-visit stop at the renowned Gokyo Ri viewpoint (5,430m/17,519ft). From this vantage point, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring views of four of the world's six highest mountains: Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,485m), and Cho Oyu (8,188m). Additionally, we'll have the opportunity to discover the other mesmerizing Gokyo lakes.
Accommodation:
- Guest House/Tea House [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 3.7 kilometers (2.3 miles) (5-6 hrs treks)
After a day of acclimatization in Gokyo village, we resume our trek towards Thangnak. Along the way, we'll traverse the impressive Ngozumpa Glacier. While the trail presents its share of undulating terrain, it's a relatively shorter journey without significant altitude gain.
Nestled beside the Ngozumpa Glacier, Thangnak village offers a tranquil setting, serving as an ideal stopover for trekkers en route to the Cho-La high pass (5,330m).
Accommodation:
- Guest House/Tea House [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 16 kilometers (9.9 miles) (6-7 hrs treks)
After a restful night in Thangnak, we'll embark on an early morning hike over rocky trails and glacial moraines to reach the summit of Cho La Pass. After a few hours of trekking, we'll stand atop Cho La Pass, treated to breathtaking vistas of Cho La Lake and the majestic Mt. Cholatse (6,440m).
Descending from the pass, we'll encounter icy and slippery terrain, but the scenery along the way is truly captivating. After approximately seven hours of trekking, we'll reach our day's destination - Dzongla. It's a challenging yet rewarding journey.
Accommodation:
- Guest House/Tea House [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 8.36 kilometers (5.2 miles) (4-5 hrs treks)
Today, our journey continues as we bid farewell to Dzongla, tracing the moraine's path and descending alongside Chola Lake. Our route then follows the Khumbu Glacier, where poignant memorial statues honor climbers who lost their lives in this rugged terrain.
Compared to the previous day's challenges, today's trek to Lobuche promises to be more enjoyable. En route, we'll follow the tranquil Imja Khola river. After approximately four hours of trekking, we'll arrive at our destination for the day - Lobuche. With this, we reconnect with the iconic Everest Base Camp trek trail.
Accommodation:
- Guest House/Tea House [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) (6-7 hrs treks)
Today is an exciting day as we make our way to the viewpoint for Mount Everest. Firstly, we'll trek for about 3 hours, navigating boulders and rough paths until we reach the small settlement of Gorakshep. After a satisfying lunch, our journey continues towards Kalapatthar, which offers the most spectacular views of Everest. At an impressive altitude of 5,545 meters, Kalapatthar is the highest point you can trek to in Nepal without needing climbing permits. Its name means 'black rock' and refers more to a ridge than a distinct mountain peak. If the weather isn't clear, we might postpone our visit to Kalapatthar until the morning, as the sunrise view of Everest is just as breathtaking as the sunset. Alternatively, if we choose this option, we'll trek to Everest Base Camp today. Please note that trekking groups avoid entering the base camp area where climbing expeditions are set up, so as not to disrupt the climbers or pose any health risks to them. This helps to ensure we don't inadvertently pass on any illnesses during their significant journey, while still allowing us to admire the ongoing activities from a distance.
Accommodation:
- Guest House/Tea House [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 19.6 kilometers (12.1 miles) (7-8 hrs treks)
If we missed visiting Kalapatthar yesterday, we'll make the trip this morning and head back to Gorakshep for breakfast. Similarly, if we didn't get a chance to visit Everest Base Camp on day 9, we'll do that this morning too. Each excursion takes about 3 to 4 hours, including the return trip from Gorakshep. Following breakfast, we'll proceed towards Pheriche, which typically takes around 4 hours to reach. This small settlement is home to the Himalayan Rescue Association Clinic, which started as a clinic and has evolved into a hospital. It specializes in addressing altitude sickness and other altitude-related issues faced by trekkers and climbers, alongside providing healthcare services to the local community. Mostly run by volunteer medical professionals, this clinic is an intriguing highlight in the area worth exploring.
Accommodation:
- Guest House/Tea House [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 16 kilometers (9.9 miles) (7-8 hrs treks)
Today's trail involves a significant descent, though there are uphill sections to conquer too! As we near Namche, the landscape transforms with lush forests and greenery reemerging. It's a demanding day of walking, especially after the challenging hike yesterday. Keep going because a rewarding dinner and a relaxing hot shower are waiting for you! This marks the perfect moment to celebrate your successful Everest Base Camp trek with a refreshing beer! Plus, take advantage of the available wifi to connect with loved ones back home and share some stunning trip photos.
Accommodation:
- Guest House/Tea House [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance: Approximately 19 kilometers (11.8 miles) (7-8 hrs treks)
Embarking on the trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla covers approximately 19 kilometers, usually taking 7-8 hours to complete, offering a mix of landscapes and captivating sights. Starting from Namche Bazaar, nestled at an altitude of 3,440 meters, the trail gradually descends, weaving through Sherpa villages, lush forests, and suspension bridges. This scenic route presents both uphill climbs and downhill stretches before reaching Lukla at about 2,800 meters. As the final leg of the Everest Base Camp trek, this journey offers stunning views of the Himalayas while bidding farewell to the natural beauty of the Khumbu region.
Accommodation:
- Guest House/Tea House [1 Night]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
This morning marks our farewell to Mt. Everest and the Khumbu Region as we take our flight back to either Kathmandu or Manthali Airport. Our arrival time in Kathmandu or Manthali depends on airport availability and weather conditions. If Kathmandu is open, we'll likely be back for brunch or by early afternoon. This allows for some shopping time before our evening farewell dinner. Please note, the actual return schedule might be subject to change based on airport openings and weather situations.
Accommodation:
- Hotel [1 Night]
Optional Activities:
- Nepali dinner with a live cultural show at the Nepali restaurant [complimentary]
Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Today is your last day in the highest country on earth.
Free time until departure
Transfer to the international airport for final departure (Or stay longer for short tours - ask us)
We hope you had a magical experience in the Himalayas and we hope to see you again soon.
Meals Included:
Breakfast
Includes
- Airport pick & drop by comfortable private air-conditional vehicle
- All transfer as per the given itinerary by comfortable private air-conditional vehicle
- TIMS Card & permit fees
- Trekking guide & porter
- A comprehensive medical kit
- Free Trekking bag
- Kathmandu-Lukla return airfare
- Daily buffet breakfast in Kathmandu
- Daily breakfast, lunch & dinner with tea during the trekking time
- All accommodation in the mention hotel
- 2 Nights The Soaltee Kathmandu or similar in Kathmandu
- 14 Nights at best available lodge during the Trekking
- 2 Nights Hotel Barahi Kathmandu or similar in Kathmandu
- 14 Nights at best available lodge during the Trekking
- 2 Nights Kantipur Village or similar in Kathmandu
- 14 Nights at best available lodge during the Trekking
- 2 Nights Hotel Arts or similar in Kathmandu
- 14 Nights at best available lodge during the Trekking
Excludes
- Nepal Visa fees & International airfare
- Tips for driver, guide & porter [It is not compulsory]
- Meals in Kathmandu [US$ 10-30 per lunch/dinner]
- Necessary trekking equipment and things as per check list
- Any expenses incurred in emergency evacuation
- Any transportation cost outside of the regular itinerary
- Personal expenses such as insurance, medical charges, laundry, shopping, liquor etc
- Cost arising by flight cancellation/road blockades/landslides and reasons beyond our control
EPE (Estimated Personal Expenses)
The daily expenses per person listed below are based on market estimates and can vary slightly depending on the hotels, shops, and restaurants you choose, as well as your spending habits. We recommend using services outside of hotels, such as local restaurants, department stores, and markets, to save money.
Upon your arrival in Nepal, we will guide you on how to save money during your tour. This information is provided to help you estimate your tour budget.
This information is only for the city area. On the trekking route, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.
Package Category | Lunch, dinner & Water |
---|---|
Luxury | US$ 60-70 Per person per night |
Comfort | US$ 50-60 Per person per night |
Standard | US$ 40-50 Per person per night |
Budget | US$ 30-40 Per person per night |
Informations
CLIMATE & BEST TIME TO GO
Autumn (mid Sept to mid Dec) and Spring (March to May) are the best seasons for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The weather is sunny and warm, with outstanding views but the nights are cold and can fall to freezing. Winter (Dec, Jan, Feb) is also good for Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, only colder (obviously). The trekking routes are crowded during spring and autumn but during winter the routes are not packed and you could enjoy rather best of nature. However, please note, there may be snowfall / avalanches during the winter.
RESCUE/EVACUATIONS
In case of a serious sickness or a casualty, which we hope will not happen; you shall be rescued by a helicopter. Since you are entirely liable for all the expenses incurred in evacuation please make sure that it is covered by your insurance before assigning for it or be prepared to pay on your own after getting back in Kathmandu.
INSURANCE
It is recommended of joining any of Destination Nepal Tours & Travels trips that be protected against comprehensive expenses potential to incur due to medical issues or accidents (to include air ambulance, helicopter rescue, and treatment costs). Please be noted that we do not arrange insurance. Please note that your insurance should be covered 5600m
VISA
All visitors (except Indian nationals) must have a valid passport and visa to enter Nepal. Visas are available at Nepalese embassies/consulates or entry points. To avoid queues, complete the online visa form within 10 days of your arrival date. Children under 10 are exempt from visa fees. Citizens of Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, and Afghanistan are not eligible for visas on arrival. Check official sources for updates. Click here
VISA FEES
15 Days: 30 US$
30 Days: 50 US$
90 Days: 125 US$
For more details; Visit Immigration website
PASSPORT AND VISAS:
You must have a valid passport (valid for at least six months beyond your trip) and all required visas, permits, and certificates for your destinations. Ensure you possess the correct documents as outlined in the Trip Notes. We are not responsible for entry refusal due to missing or incorrect travel documentation.
TIPPING
Tips are appreciated by your support team after the trip. Tips are not mandatory in Nepal but recommended. The amount depends on your budget and appreciation of their work. Where restaurant meals are involved, the tipping is usually 10% of the bill. We would like to request all travelers to give tips separately for driver & guide. Our suggestion is US$ 5 per day by per tourist to driver if same driver is there for whole trip & US$ 10 per day to guide.
BOOKING CONDITIONS
Your booking will be confirmed via email after a 40% deposit of the total trip cost is made through our payment gateway via credit/debit card. The remaining 60% is payable upon arrival in Kathmandu. You may pay the 40% deposit by card or cash, with at least 20% required in cash (USD, AUD, EUR, GBP, CAD, JPY, or SGD).
CANCELATION
If the traveler cancels, the agency charges a cancellation fee based on the following:
- 20% if canceled up to 30 days before the trip
- 30% if canceled 15-29 days before the trip
- 60% if canceled 7-14 days before the trip
- 90% if canceled 6 or fewer days before the trip or in case of no-show
There is no charge for postponing the trip.
TripAdvisor-Recommended Packing Checklist for 17 Days Everest Base Camp & Gokyo Lake Trek
All-Season Essentials:
Clothing:
- Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms
- Mid Layers: Fleece jacket or wool sweater for insulation
- Outer Layers: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
- Trekking Pants: Lightweight, quick-drying, and durable
- Down Jacket: Essential for the cold temperatures at high altitudes
- Trekking Shirts: Both short and long sleeves, moisture-wicking
- Gloves: Lightweight inner gloves and insulated, waterproof outer gloves
- Headwear: Sun hat for daytime, beanie for cold, and a buff or scarf for added protection
- Underwear: Moisture-wicking and quick-drying
Footwear:
- Trekking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof, and well-broken-in with good ankle support
- Camp Shoes: Comfortable sandals or lightweight sneakers for evenings
- Trekking Socks: Wool or synthetic, moisture-wicking, with extra pairs for long days
- Gaiters: To keep snow, mud, and debris out of your boots
Gear:
- Backpack: Medium-sized with a rain cover (30-40L capacity)
- Daypack: Smaller for daily essentials (if using a porter)
- Sleeping Bag: Rated for -10°C to -20°C (can be rented in Kathmandu)
- Trekking Poles: Essential for balance, especially on uneven terrain and the Cho La Pass
- Water Bottle: Reusable, with a capacity of at least 2 liters (hydration system recommended)
- Headlamp: With extra batteries, crucial for early starts and evenings
Accessories:
- Sunglasses: UV protection with polarized lenses, crucial for the snow glare
- Sunscreen: High SPF for face and lips to protect against harsh UV rays
- Lip Balm: SPF protection to prevent chapping
- Dry Bags: To protect electronics, documents, and clothing from moisture
- Power Bank/Solar Charger: For charging electronics during the trek
Personal Items:
- First Aid Kit: Include blister care, altitude sickness medication (Diamox), pain relievers, and other personal medications
- Hygiene Products: Biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and a quick-dry towel
- Toilet Paper: A must-have, as it’s not always available on the trail
- Basic Toiletries: Including deodorant, shampoo, and feminine hygiene products if needed
Documents & Money:
- Passport: With necessary visas and permits (Sagarmatha National Park Permit, TIMS card)
- Cash: Nepalese Rupees in small denominations for teahouses and shops
- Travel Insurance: Including coverage for high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation
Extras:
- Camera/Smartphone: To capture the stunning scenery
- Journal/Book: For downtime at teahouses
- Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, and other high-calorie snacks for the trek
Additional Items for Winter Treks (December to February):
Extra Warm Layers:
- Heavier Down Jacket: For freezing temperatures at higher altitudes
- Thermal Socks: Extra pairs for warmth
- Thick Gloves: Insulated and waterproof
- Balaclava/Neck Gaiter: To protect against icy winds
Footwear Enhancements:
- Microspikes/Crampons: For traction on icy trails, especially around Cho La Pass
- Sleeping Bag Liner: For added warmth in colder teahouses
Winter treks can be extremely cold, so layering and proper insulation are key.
Additional Items for Monsoon Treks (June to August):
Rain Protection:
- Waterproof Jacket and Pants: High-quality, fully sealed seams
- Rain Cover: For your backpack, essential during monsoon season
- Dry Bags: To keep gear and clothing dry
- Quick-Drying Clothes: Vital for wet conditions
Footwear Protection:
- Waterproof Boots: Essential for keeping feet dry on wet trails
- Leech Socks: To protect against leeches during the monsoon
Health & Hygiene:
- Insect Repellent: To guard against mosquitoes and other insects
- Antifungal Powder/Cream: To prevent fungal infections from wet conditions
Monsoon treks are lush but challenging due to rain and slippery trails. Proper gear is essential.
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