Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek- 16 days

The Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek is one of the most beautiful trekking experiences in Nepal combining the famous Everest Base Camp trail with the stunning Gokyo Lakes, and Cho La Pass.

Overview

Show all photos

Overview
Highlight
Outline
Itinerary
Cost Includes/Excludes
FAQs

Duration

16 Days

Max Alitiude

5,555 meters at Kala Patthar

Transportation

Tourist Bus & Flight

Trip Grade

Moderate to Challenging

Activity

Trekking

Start/End Point

Lukla / Lukla

Best Season

Spring (March - May) & Autumn (late September - November)

Meals

Full board during trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Accommodation

Hotels (Kathmandu), Teahouses during trek

Trip Overview

The Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek is one of the most beautiful and rewarding trekking experiences in Nepal. It combines the famous Everest Base Camp trail with the peaceful Gokyo Valley, the stunning Gokyo Lakes, and the exciting Cho La Pass crossing. This trek is perfect for people who want more than the classic Everest Base Camp route and wish to experience both adventure and the quieter side of the Himalayas. Along the way, you will enjoy magnificent views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and many other Himalayan giants.

The trek actually starts in Lukla so that you will take a scenic flight from Kathmandu. From Lukla, the trail passes through Sherpa villages, green forests, and suspension bridges with colorful prayer flags. You’ll walk beside the Dudh Koshi River and slowly head toward Namche Bazaar, the main town of the Everest region. Here, you can rest, adjust to the altitude, and enjoy amazing views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other Himalayan mountains.

From Namche, the route leaves the busier Everest trail and heads into the quieter Gokyo Valley. Passing through small mountain villages, glacial streams, and rugged alpine landscapes, you slowly gain altitude toward the stunning Gokyo Lakes, whose turquoise waters sit beneath towering snowy peaks and vast glaciers.

A sunrise hike to Gokyo Ri offers one of the best panoramic views in the Himalayas, with Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu rising above the valley below. The adventure continues across the challenging Cho La Pass, where rocky trails, snow, and icy sections add a true sense of high-altitude adventure.

After crossing the pass, the trail rejoins the classic Everest Base Camp route near Lobuche. You will walk beside the Khumbu Glacier, and continue toward Gorakshep and finally reach Everest Base Camp. You will witness the moment surrounded by glaciers, icefalls, and some of the world’s highest mountains.

The next morning, you will do an early hike to Kala Patthar. When you reach there, your eyes will be rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise view over Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan range. This Kala Patthar is the last destination of this 16-day trek to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake. From here, you will start descending through the Khumbu region and reach Lukla. From Lukla, you will take a flight back to Kathmandu, leaving the stunning, unforgettable journey through the Himalayas behind.

The Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek is more than just a trek in Nepal. It is a journey through some of the world’s most beautiful mountain landscapes. It combines adventure, nature, culture, and unforgettable scenery into one incredible experience.

If you are looking for the ultimate Everest adventure in Nepal, this trek promises memories that will last long after the journey ends. Contact us today to start planning your Himalayan adventure and experience the magic of Everest and Gokyo.

Trip Highlights

Experience the iconic Everest Base Camp Trek with the beautiful Gokyo Valley route.
Witness breathtaking Himalayan panoramas including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Ama Dablam.
Explore the stunning turquoise Gokyo Lakes, among the highest freshwater lake systems in the world.
Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,360m) for one of the best panoramic viewpoints in the Everest region.
Cross the adventurous Cho La Pass (5,420m), a thrilling Himalayan high pass.
Reach Everest Base Camp (5,364m), the base of the world’s highest mountain.
Climb Kala Patthar (5,555m) for close-up sunrise views of Mount Everest.
Experience authentic Sherpa culture, monasteries, prayer flags, and Himalayan hospitality.
Stay in traditional mountain teahouses surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Trek through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Enjoy scenic flights to and from Lukla, one of the world’s most exciting mountain airports.

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel.
Day 02: Fly to Lukla & trek to Phakding.
Day 03: Trek to Namche Bazaar.
Day 04: Acclimatization Day at Namche. Hike to Hotel Everest View and back.
Day 05: Trek to Dole.
Day 06: Trek to Machhermo.
Day 07: Trek to Gokyo Lake.
Day 08: Hike to Gokyo Ri & trek to Thangnak (4,850m).
Day 09: Trek to Dzongla (4,830m) via Chola Pass.
Day 10: Trek to Lobuche.
Day 11: Trek to Gorakshep & hike to Everest Base Camp.
Day 12: Hike to Kala Patthar & trek to Pheriche (4,371m).
Day 13: Trek to Namche Bazaar.
Day 14: Trek to Lukla.
Day 15: Fly back to Kathmandu.
Day 16: Departure from Nepal.

Trip Itinerary

Day 01 Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel.
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel.

After check-in, you can relax after a tiring journey. Or, you can also take a leisurely walk around Thamel. Thamel is the city’s lively tourist hub known for its bustling streets, cozy cafés, souvenir shops, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.

Overnight in Kathmandu.
- Max. Altitude: 1,400m (4,600 feet)
- Accommodation: 3-star Hotel
- Meals: Dinner
Day 02 Fly to Lukla & trek to Phakding.
Early in the morning, you will transfer to the domestic airport for a scenic mountain flight to Lukla. During the flight, enjoy spectacular aerial views of the Himalayan ranges, green hills, and deep valleys.

After landing at Tenzing-Hillary Airport, one of the world’s most thrilling airports, in Lukla, you will meet the rest of the trekking crew and begin your trek. The first trekking day is relatively easy and helps your body gradually adapt to the altitude.

The trail passes through charming Sherpa villages, Buddhist prayer stones, and mani walls. Along the way, you will cross suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River and walk through peaceful pine forests and small settlements.

After several hours of trekking, you will finally reach Phakding, a beautiful village surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of the Himalayas.

Overnight in Phakding.
- Max. Altitude: 2,610m (8,563 feet)
- Accommodation: Standard Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Drive duration: 5-6 hours’ drive
- Trek Duration: 3-4 hours trek
- Flight Duration: 20 minutes
Day 03 Trek to Namche Bazaar.
Today is one of the most exciting trekking days as you enter the heart of the Khumbu region. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River and crosses several suspension bridges decorated with colorful prayer flags. Along the route, you will pass through small Sherpa settlements, pine forests, and scenic river valleys surrounded by towering peaks.

In a while, you will reach Monjo, from where you will officially enter Sagarmatha National Park. Here, your permits will be checked by the officials. The Sagarmatha National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its unique Himalayan ecosystem and rare wildlife, including Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and colorful pheasants.

Continuing, the trail becomes steeper and more challenging. Following the trail, you will reach the famous market of the Khumbu Region, Namche Bazaar. Along the way, if the weather permits, you will get to witness the first distant view of Mount Everest.

Namche Bazaar is the main trading and cultural center of the Everest region. The town is built into a mountainside amphitheater and offers cafes, bakeries, gear shops, museums, and beautiful mountain views.

Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
- Max. Altitude: 3,440m (11,286 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hours trek
Day 04 Acclimatization Day at Namche. Hike to Hotel Everest View and back.
Today is the acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar, which will help reduce the risk of altitude sickness and help your body adjust.

After breakfast, you will do a short hike to Hotel Everest View, one of the highest luxury hotels in the world. The viewpoint offers incredible panoramic views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Thamserku.

You may also visit the Sherpa Culture Museum or explore nearby villages such as Khumjung, famous for its monastery and “Yeti scalp” legend.

After spending some quality time up there, you will return to Namche Bazaar, and you can spend the remainder of the day resting. Or you can enjoy coffee shops, bakeries, and local markets around.

Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
- Max. Altitude: 3,880m (12,730 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 4-5 hours trek
Day 05 Trek to Dole.
Today, you will leave the classic Everest Base Camp trail and head toward the beautiful, less crowded Gokyo Valley.

The trail initially climbs gradually with incredible views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. You will pass through Mong La Pass before descending into forests filled with rhododendron, pine, and juniper trees.

Along the way, you will pass small Sherpa villages, prayer flags, and yak caravans carrying supplies through the mountains. As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes more rugged and alpine, with fewer trees and wider views of the mountains.

After several hours of trekking through peaceful Himalayan scenery, you will reach the quiet village of Dole.

Overnight in Dole.
- Max. Altitude: 4,200m (13,780 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 6-7 hours trek
Day 06 Trek to Machhermo.
Today’s trek offers spectacular Himalayan scenery with incredible views of Cho Oyu, the world’s sixth-highest mountain. Along the trail, you will also see dramatic glaciers, rocky hillsides, and wide alpine landscapes.

The trail gradually ascends through small settlements, including Luza and Lhafarma. As you gain altitude, the environment becomes more rugged and barren, with fewer trees and more high-altitude vegetation.

Later, you will arrive at Machhermo. Machhermo is known for its beautiful valley scenery and stunning mountain backdrop. This village is also an important stop for acclimatization before continuing higher into the Gokyo region.

Overnight in Machhermo.
- Max. Altitude: 4,470m (14,665 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 4-5 hours trek
Day 07 Trek to Gokyo Lake.
Today is one of the most scenic days of the trek. The route climbs past glacial streams and moraines before reaching the stunning Gokyo Lakes.

As you approach Gokyo, you will witness turquoise glacial lakes surrounded by towering snow-covered peaks. The contrast between the blue lakes and the white mountains creates some of the most spectacular scenery in the Everest region.

Gokyo village sits beside the third Gokyo Lake and offers magnificent views of Cho Oyu and the massive Ngozumpa Glacier, Nepal’s longest glacier. The trek to Gokyo Lake is also considered one of the most beautiful destinations in the Himalayas.

Overnight at Gokyo.
- Max. Altitude: 4,800 meters (15,748 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 3-4 hours trek
Day 08 Hike to Gokyo Ri & trek to Thangnak (4,850m).
Early in the morning, you will hike to Gokyo Ri, one of the finest viewpoints in the Everest region. The climb is steep but extremely rewarding.

From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and countless Himalayan peaks. The sunrise views over the Gokyo Lakes and glaciers are unforgettable. As the first golden light slowly touches the peaks, it turns the snow-covered mountains into shades of orange, pink, and gold. The combination of sunlight, lakes, and glaciers creates one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.

After enjoying quality time at the RI, you then return to Gokyo village and have breakfast. Later, you will trek across the rugged terrain of the Ngozumpa Glacier, and in a few hours through rocky and uneven terrain with icy sections and moraine fields, you reach Thangnak.

Overnight in Thangnak.
- Max. Altitude: 5,360m (17,585 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 6-7 hours trek
Day 09 Trek to Dzongla (4,830m) via Chola Pass.
Today is the most challenging and adventurous part of the trek. You will cross the famous Cho La Pass, one of the highest and most exciting mountain passes in the Everest region.

You will start very early in the morning to avoid strong afternoon winds and unstable weather. The trail starts with a steep uphill climb over rocky, loose-stone paths. As you gain altitude, the air becomes thinner, making the walk more physically demanding. You may also cross glacier terrain, where the trail can be slippery and uneven.

Although the climb is difficult, once you reach the top of the Cho La Pass, the view is unforgettable. Dramatic Himalayan peaks, frozen lakes, and stunning glacier views will surround you.

After spending some time at the pass for photos and rest, the trail descends carefully toward Dzongla. Upon arrival in Dzongla, you can relax and enjoy a well-deserved rest after an adventurous day in the Himalayas.

Overnight in Dzongla.
- Max. Altitude: 5,420 meters (17,782 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 7-8 hours trek
Day 10 Trek to Lobuche.
Today is a shorter trekking day, allowing time for rest and recovery after crossing Cho La Pass.

The trail gradually descends before joining the classic Everest Base Camp route near Lobuche. Along the trail, you will be treated to magnificent views of towering peaks such as Nuptse, Lobuche Peak, and several other snow-covered mountains.

As you approach Lobuche, the landscape becomes more dramatic, with glaciers, rocky ridges, and wide mountain valleys.

Overnight in Lobuche.
- Max. Altitude: 4,940m (16,207 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 2-3 hours trek
Day 11 Trek to Gorakshep & hike to Everest Base Camp.
Today is one of the biggest highlights of the entire journey. The trail follows rocky glacial terrain toward Gorakshep, the final settlement before Everest Base Camp.

Continuing, you will reach Gorakshep, where you will have lunch and take a short break before continuing to Everest Base Camp.

Later, you will continue toward Everest Base Camp itself. The trail passes beside the Khumbu Glacier with breathtaking mountain scenery all around.

Standing at the foot of the world’s highest mountain is an unforgettable experience and one of the proudest moments of the entire adventure. You will have time to enjoy the atmosphere, take photographs, and celebrate this remarkable accomplishment before returning to Gorakshep.

Overnight in Gorakshep.
- Max. Altitude: 5,364 meters (17,598 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 7-8 hours trek
Day 12 Hike to Kala Patthar & trek to Pheriche (4,371m).
Early in the morning, before sunrise, you will begin the walk to Kala Patthar, the highest point of the trek and one of the best viewpoints in the Everest region. The climb is steep and challenging because of the high altitude.

As the sun rises over the Himalayas, you will witness breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, and many surrounding snow-covered peaks. The golden morning light shining on the mountains creates one of the most spectacular scenes of the entire journey and offers excellent opportunities for photography.

After spending time at Kala Patthar, you will descend back to Gorakshep for breakfast. Later, the trek continues downhill through rocky mountain trails and alpine landscapes toward Pheriche.

Overnight in Pheriche.
- Max. Altitude: 5,555 meters (18,225 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 7-8 hours trek
Day 13 Trek to Namche Bazaar.
Today is a long but enjoyable trekking day as the trail gradually descends through beautiful alpine valleys, rhododendron forests, and traditional Sherpa villages. The route offers changing landscapes and impressive mountain scenery throughout.

Along the way, you will pass through Tengboche, a peaceful mountain village famous for the historic Tengboche Monastery. This monastery is one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in the Everest region and offers stunning Himalayan views. If time allows, you may have the opportunity to explore the monastery and experience its calm spiritual atmosphere.

As the trek continues downhill, the air becomes richer in oxygen, making breathing easier and walking more comfortable. Later, you will reach Namche Bazaar.

Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
- Max. Altitude: 3,440m (11,286 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 7-8 hours trek
Day 14 Trek to Lukla.
Today is the final trekking day of your Everest adventure. The trail follows the scenic route alongside the Dudh Koshi River as you make your way back to Lukla.

You will cross suspension bridges, pass through familiar Sherpa villages, and celebrate the successful completion of your Himalayan adventure with your trekking crew.

Overnight in Lukla.
- Max. Altitude: 2,840m (9,318 feet)
- Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Trek Duration: 7 hours trek
Day 15 Fly back to Kathmandu.
Take an early morning flight from Lukla back to Kathmandu. During the flight, enjoy your final aerial views of the Himalayan mountains.

After returning to Kathmandu, you can relax, shop for souvenirs, or explore cultural sites around the city.

Overnight in Kathmandu.
- Max. Altitude: 1,400m (4,600 feet)
- Accommodation: 3-star Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Drive duration: 45 minutes’ drive
- Flight Duration: 20 minutes
Day 16 Departure from Nepal.
Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure.

Your unforgettable Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake adventure comes to an end, leaving you with lifelong memories of the Himalayas, Sherpa culture, and the world’s highest mountains.
- Meals: Breakfast (Lunch depending on the schedule)

Trip notes

It is strongly advised to include additional buffer days in Kathmandu, as the weather in the Himalayas can change rapidly and flights to Tenzing-Hillary Airport are frequently delayed. Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended.

Trekking poles may make long descents considerably easier on the knees, and packing light with appropriate clothing is preferable to lugging heavy gear. Before departing Kathmandu, make sure you have enough Nepalese currency, as ATMs outside Namche Bazaar are unreliable.

Cost Includes

Airport picks up and drops off.
All necessary trekking permits (Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fee, TIMS, or equivalent).
Round-trip airfare between Manthali/Kathmandu and Lukla.
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (3-star, twin sharing)
Teahouse/Lodge accommodation during the trek.
Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek.
Professional trekking guide and porter (1 porter for two trekkers).
Guide and porter insurance, salary, food, and lodging.
All government and local taxes.

Cost Excludes

International airfares.
Nepal entry visa fees.
All personal expenses, including alcohol & other beverages, trekking equipment, travel insurance, and more.
Extra expenses during the trek, like hot shower charge, battery charging, Wi-Fi, and any others.
Tips for the trekking guides and porters.
Additional hotel stays in Kathmandu if not on the planned itinerary.
Any expenses not mentioned in the “Includes” section.

When to visit

Average time to visit
Best time to visit
Good time to visit

FAQs for this trip

How difficult is the Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek?
The Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek is challenging, but it can be completed with good physical fitness and determination.

During the trek, you will walk for around 5–8 hours each day on mountain trails, steep hills, rocky paths, and high-altitude terrain.

The most difficult parts of the Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek are:
- Crossing Cho La Pass (5,420m)
- Hiking to Gokyo Ri (5,360m)
- Reaching Kala Patthar (5,555m)
Is altitude sickness common during the Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek?
Yes, altitude sickness can happen during the Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek because the trek reaches very high elevations.

Common symptoms include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Trouble sleeping
The itinerary is designed carefully with acclimatization days to help your body adjust to the altitude. Walking slowly, drinking plenty of water, eating properly, and listening to your guide are very important during the Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek.
How cold does it get during the Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek?
The Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek can become very cold, especially at higher elevations.

At places like Gokyo, Lobuche, Gorakshep, and Kala Patthar:
- Daytime temperatures may stay between -5°C and 10°C
- Night temperatures can drop below -15°C
Warm clothing, thermal layers, gloves, hats, and a good sleeping bag are essential for the Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek.
What happens if Lukla flights are delayed during the Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek?

Flight delays are common during the Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek because the weather in the mountains can change quickly.

Bad weather, clouds, or strong winds may delay or cancel Lukla flights. Because of this, it is strongly recommended to keep 1–2 extra days in Kathmandu after the trek.

In some situations, helicopter flights may be available at an additional cost.
Is Cho La Pass dangerous during the Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek?

Cho La Pass is one of the most adventurous parts of the Everest Base Camp-Gokyo Lake Trek. It can be difficult because of steep climbs, rocky terrain, snow, and ice.

However, the crossing is generally safe when done with proper acclimatization, good weather, and experienced guides.

Trekking guides closely monitor trail and weather conditions to ensure safety during the Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek.
Why choose the Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek instead of the classic Everest Base Camp Trek?

The Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek is considered more scenic and adventurous than the standard Everest Base Camp route because it combines multiple highlights into one incredible journey.

In addition to reaching Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, trekkers also explore the stunning Gokyo Lakes, hike to Gokyo Ri, and cross the spectacular Cho La Pass.

The Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Trek also includes quieter trails, beautiful glacial landscapes, and more diverse Himalayan scenery compared to the regular Everest Base Camp trek.