Gokyo Vally and Everest Base Camp Via Chola Pass- 15 Days

15 Days

The Gokyo and Everest 15-day trek in the Himalayas of Nepal is an unforgettable journey through a land of stunning natural beauty and rich culture. The region is home to some of the hardiest and most hospitable people in Nepal, including the legendary Sherpas who have helped countless mountaineers reach the summit of Mount Everest.

The trek explores the tranquil Gokyo Valley, Sagarmatha National Park. Witness Gokyo Ri (5357m) and Kala Patthar (5550m) alongside Everest (8848m), Lhotse (8516m), Makalu (8485m), and Cho Oyu (8201m). The region boasts a rich wildlife population. Hikers frequently spot yaks, donkeys, musk deer, Himalayan mountain bears, wild mountain goats, snow leopards, blue sheep, langur monkeys, mountain hawks, and the gloriously colored pheasants (lophophoruses) along the trail.

Starting of Our Trek

The Everest Base Camp trek begins with a thrilling flight to Lukla. You’ll trek through villages, reaching Gokyo and Everest Base Camp. Hike Kala Patthar (5,550m) for stunning mountain views.

The Sagarmatha National Park boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna. Here, unique species of plants and animals thrive, some of which exist nowhere else on Earth. This park serves as a sanctuary for these irreplaceable creatures and plants. The landscape ranges from lush valleys and forests to glaciers, offering trekkers a truly unique and immersive experience of region.

The Alpine Club of Himalaya’s Gokyo and Everest 15-day trek is designed to provide trekkers with a more diverse experience of the region, going beyond the traditional Everest Base Camp trek. The trek offers many vantage points for photographers to capture the essence of this region, making it a popular choice for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and photographers alike.

Conclusion

The Gokyo and Everest trek is an unforgettable 15-day adventure in Nepal’s Himalayas. Trekkers experience stunning scenery, rich Sherpa culture, and unique wildlife. Diverse landscapes offer breathtaking views, making this trek a must-do for Himalayan explorers.

Itinerary

The flight into Nepal is breathtaking with views of mountains and lush hills. Once you arrive at Kathmandu International Airport and are done with your immigration formalities, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative will drive you to your hotel. After a brief rest head out to explore the wonders of Kathmandu Valley. Later in the afternoon join in for a brief orientation regarding the trek followed by a welcome dinner.

Meals: Welcome Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel

Catch an early morning exciting flight from Kathmandu Airport to Lukla witnessing views of mountain giants. Lukla, a picturesque mountaintop Sherpa settlement is the starting point of your trek.

From Lukla head towards to Phakding, descend towards the Dudh Koshi River passing through various settlements of Chheplung, Ghat, Sano and Thulo Gumela and Chorten and monasteries of Drangdrak Gompa and Pema Choling Gompa with breathtaking views of sacred mountain peaks of Kumbila and sister summit Kusum Kanguru.

Phakding nestled at an elevation of 2,610 meters and is a small Sherpa settlement hidden in the heart of the Dudh Koshi Valley.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House

Today you will be heading to Namche Bazar known as the "Sherpa capital”. The trail passes the Dudh Koshi, a milky glacial river up to Monjo crossing a number of suspension bridges and the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge.

After a brief rest, head towards Namche Bazaar on an uphill trail on a steep path to an amazing high bridge over the Dudh Koshi River gorge, and just before this bridge, the Dudh Koshi is met by its tributary, the Bhote Koshi. As you gain altitude, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest peering over the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge, from here Namche is a short hike away.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House

Today is your day for acclimatization, as you ascend higher, your body must acclimate to the thinner air at greater elevations. The village has various vantage points perfect for an acclimatization hike.

Head towards any vantage point before dawn and witness mesmerizing views of the sunrise over the Himalayas. The rays of the sun change the snowy white peak into various colors. Bask in the views of Mount Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kongde, Lhotse, and other mountain peaks.

After lunch head towards Thami a village located above the Bhote Khola River Valley. Traversing through the lush woodlands of the Sagarmatha National Park you will reach the national park headquarters above the village. From here witness panoramic views of the Mahalangur range and the mighty Everest. Explore the national park headquarters and learn about the Sherpa lifestyle, culture, and biodiversity of the region. After exploring the region head back towards Namche, and along the way witness the grand views of dusk.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House

After breakfast start the trek following a steep ascent out of the Namche. As you progress on the trial cross the deep wilderness of rhododendron, juniper, and large conifer forest. Along this section keep an eye out as you may witness the unique bio-diversity of the region. Next, progressing out of the woodland reach the wide alpine grassland of Yak Kharka.

There after following the gentle section witness grand views of Khumbu La Pass and Taboche. Crossing several villages eventually reach Dole.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House

Wake up early and enjoy the majestic views of sunrise. After breakfast start the adventure towards Gokyo. Following the high routes head out of Dole and reach the village of Machhermo.

Next traversing across high alpine grounds follow, small Strems and rivers emerging from the Ngozumba glacier. Along this section also witness grand views of Cholatse and Cho Oyu peaks. As you progress on follow a steep rocky incline and reach Gokyo. For the next 2 days, you will be exploring the wonders of Gokyo.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House

Gokyo Ri is the highlight of the Gokyo Valley Trek and is an epic vantage point for the mountain views. Following an uphill section will lead you to the summit of Gokyo Ri, start by traversing across the stream on the northern end of the village and ascending for a couple of hours and you will reach the summit marked by a cradle of prayer flags. The climb is non-technical, but the altitude may be a problem for some, so take it slow and have frequent rest.

From the summit, witness splendid panoramic views of Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cholatse, and Taboche, with the Ngozumpa Glacier cutting across in front like a massive tear in the landscape. Catch the views of a series of emerald, green lakes. After exploring the Ri and soaking in the majestic views retrace your steps back towards the village.

Next, after a brief refreshment break head towards Thangnak. The trek takes you following the downhill routes across flat terrain of brown and grey shades.

Upon reaching Thangnak relax and rest enjoying the grand views around.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House

Wake up before dawn and after breakfast start the trek. As you will be crossing a high pass its very crucial to start early as the weather may deteriorate as the day goes on. Following the ascending route head towards the Pass. The climb is non-technical but take it slow and have frequent rest.

From the summit of the pass witness grand views of Chola Lake, Mt. AmaDablam and other various peaks, glaciers, moraines, and lakes. After spending a brief time at the pass following the downhill trails reach the village of Dzongla.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House

After breakfast start the trek following across moraine and descending alongside Chola Lake. From this section witness stunning views of the mountains and wide valley. Progressing on the valley soaking in the views of glaciers, high passes moraine, and rings of mountains eventually reach Lobuche.

Upon reaching Lobuche relax and rest in the high alpine meadows soaking in the views.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House

Start the trek following the high trails out of Lobuche. Along the trail, witness views of several towering peaks, including Everest, Nuptse, and other enormous peaks. Following the moraine arrives at Gorakshep, one on the world’s most isolated and highest settlements.

After a brief rest at Gorak Shep leave your heavy backpacks head towards Everest Base Camp. Traversing along the turquoise water of Gorak Shep Lake with views of Changtse Peak in Tibet and the Lho La depression. Crossing glaciers, icefalls, frozen pools of meltwater, exposed icy walls, and large boulders finally reach the Everest Base Camp.

After basking in the foothills of the world’s highest peak retrace your steps back to Gorak Shep.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House

Today wake up before dawn and head towards the famous vantage point of the Khumbu region, Kala Patthar at an elevation of 5545 meters. Apart from the altitude, the climb is non-technical. Upon reaching the summit basking in the views of Everest, Pumori, Nuptse, Changtse, Ama Dablam, Taweche, Kantega, Lhotse, and even Everest base camp snuggled at the base of the Khumbu Ice Fall. After spending a brief time at the summit retrace your steps back to Gorak Shep.

Upon reaching Gorak Shep and after a brief rest head towards Lobuche, and towards Dughla. From here following a different trail reach Pheriche.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House

From Pheriche, descends to Tsuro Wog and cross the rapids of Khumbu Khola. Next cross various settlement of Orsho, Shomare, and upper Pangboche and finally to Tengboche. Tengboche village. Here explore, the largest monastery with views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku on the backdrop.

From Tengboche, move towards Phunki Tenga and descend to Sanasa and Kyangjuma and then finally to Namche Bazar. Along the trail cross sections of lush woodlands of rhododendron, mixture of confers, oaks with orchid and moss-draped trees and miles of undergrowth. Once you reach Namche Bazar head towards your accommodation and later explore the aera, there are various restaurants and pubs around the area.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House

Today start walking out of Namche Bazaar on a downhill trail along the Dudh Koshi River route. Before arriving to Lukla, cross multiple suspension bridges and pass through several ancient monasteries and settlements. Once you arrive at Lukla rest and later celebrate your last day on the mountains.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tea House

After an early morning breakfast, head towards Lukla Airport and fly back to Kathmandu. The picturesque flight from Lukla to Kathmandu seems like a delight, once you arrive at Kathmandu you’ll be driven to your accommodation. The valley has various tourist attractions, head out on a guided tour or explore the city on your own.

Later in the evening join in for a special dinner program to mark the end of your adventure with your guide and our representatives.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Farewell Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel.

Today you’ll be returning back to your country. The Alpine Club of Himalayas representative will drop you at the airport three hours before your flight departs. If you prefer to stay longer, you can consult us for short tours such as game drives at National parks, rafting, mountain biking, Tibet, India, or Bhutan tours, etc.

Meals: Breakfast

Note: All of the above-mentioned trekking hours and distances are estimations and should only be used as a general guideline.

Cost Include:

  • Airport picks up and transports by private Car/Jeep.
  • Two night’s standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. 3*
  • Three meals a day (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • Trekking Lodge (Tea House) accommodation during the trek.
  • All necessary paperwork including Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit & Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees.
  • Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flight with private airport transfer and domestic airport tax.
  • A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking well trained, Government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance.
  • Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
  • Comprehensive medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
  • Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance Company).
  • Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
  • Alpine Club of Himalaya Trekking T-shirt/Cap
  • Government taxes and official expenses.
  • Everest base camp trekking route map.
  • Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
  • Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people.
  • Ncell Sim Card (Nepalese Sim Card including 20 GB data pack) - Only 1 for a group.

Costs Exclude:

  • Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu - lunch and dinner.
  • Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $25 USD for 15-day visa.
  • Personal travel and medical insurance.
  • International airfare.
  • Your personal expenses.
  • All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic cold and hot drinks on the trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
  • All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
  • Excess baggage of more than 10 kg for Lukla flight.
  • Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
  • Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
  • Kathmandu sightseeing with the monument and entrance fees

FAQs

What entry permits and requirements are necessary for the trek?

The Gokyo and Everest Trek require two permits:

1) Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and
2) Khumbu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit.
The Nepal Tourism Boards’ office in Kathmandu or the park’s entrance gate in Monjo can provide you with Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit for NRS 3000. The fee for citizens of SAARC nations is NRS 1500. You must complete the permit application and present your passport or a copy of your passport. You must be in Lukla to obtain the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit. The permission costs NRS 2000 and may be acquired at the rural municipality counter on the outskirts of the settlement. You won’t have to worry about waiting for permits since the Alpine Club of Himalaya or our guides will take care of everything. GOOD TO KNOW’s

What are the available options for meals and drinking water during the trek?

Everest Region Trek is one of the most facilitated trekking destinations in the country, providing basic to luxury ones. In this trial, you will be provided with a variety of cuisine to choose from. Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, and Western as well as continental meals. As the region has small tea houses to luxury hotels the facilities, they provide are basic to grandeur according to your budget. Similarly, drinking water is accessible with natural water supplies which are untreated, so direct use of the water is not recommended, you may refill boiling water or cold filter water from any of the teahouses. However, if you buy a water purification tablet, chlorine drops or utilize SODIS (sunlight assisted) filtration procedures for further assurance, saving money, and reducing plastic pollution.

What are the accommodation arrangements during the trek?

Accommodations are available in trekking lodges, teahouses as well as several hotels all along the trail, providing basic well-maintained, and reasonably luxury 5-star ones with additional needs according to your budget. Tea houses on the trail vary in quality and price, depending on the amenities they feature. For trekkers who want to Camp, various campsites are available along the.

What is the best time to visit?

The best season for trekking to the Everest region is during autumn and spring, the months of September, October, November, March, April, and May. During the autumn season, the months of September, October, and November the weather is clear with warm temperatures and the visibility is great. As the weather is mild it’s very easy to get around the region. The spring season of March, April, and May are also the best time to visit the Everest region, marking the end of the winter, the spring season brings a change in the topography of the region and the destination comes to life with endless rows of different colored rhododendron, moss and orchid draped trees, colorful undergrowth stretching for miles and the snowy white mountains peaks on the backdrop of clear blue skies. Monsoon season is not favorable for trekking as the weather gets harsh and it’s hard to get around the country with frequent landslides and floods. So usually, monsoon season is avoided by trekkers. In the winter season, the area receives a high amount of snowfall, covering most of the trail, and access is denied to most of the regions of Everest, making it impossible to trek.

What forms of transportation are involved during the trek?

We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. Our only flights are from Kathmandu to Lukla and return.

Physical fitness:What level of physical fitness is recommended for the trek?

Gokyo and Everest is a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You don’t need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus! We have met people from all walks of life, shapes, and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal, it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake. Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!

What equipment is essential for the trek?

The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.

General:

  • All-season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide them if you need them,  but has to be returned after the trek)
  • Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provides a duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
  • A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
  • Daypack
  • Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
  • A pair of half gloves
  • A warmer hat that covers the ears
  • Sunglasses
  • Neck warmer
  • Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
  • Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
 

Hands:

  • A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
  • Warmer shell gloves and liner
 

Upper Body:

  • long sleeve t-shirts
  • Thermal tops
  • A wool jacket or pullover
  • Sports bras for women and girls
  • Water and windproof shell jacket
 

Lower Body:

  • Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
  • windproof and waterproof trousers
  • warmer trousers
  • Comfortable trekking pants
  • Extra casual sports pants
 

Footwear:

  • A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
  • Pair of sandals
  • 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
  • Sock liners
  • Light shoes and sneakers

What items are typically included in first aid kits and medicines for the trek?

  • Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
  • Blister treatment cream or similar
  • Insect / anti-itch ointment
  • Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
  • Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
  • Warps, splints, wound coverings butterfly bandages
  • Water purifying pills
  Note: Our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well.

What additional items are recommended or necessary for the trek?

  • Comfortable trekking poles
  • Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
  • Power bank and music players
  • Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)

Is there a specific note that needs to be highlighted or considered?

Your safety is of paramount importance to us at the Alpine Club of Himalaya. We have the absolute authority to cancel the trip or change the itinerary, when deemed necessary or when we have reason to believe your safety is at stake. Weather conditions, the health condition of a group member, natural disasters, and such, can contribute to changes in the itinerary when traveling in remote mountainous regions. In these extreme situations, we kindly request that you offer your full cooperation to the trusted leader of the group appointed by the Alpine Club of Himalaya. However, we assure you that we will make every effort to keep to the above itinerary.

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Gokyo Vally and Everest Base Camp Via Chola Pass- 15 Days
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Sujan Lamichhane
Sujan Lamichhane

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