EBC with Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass -17 Days

The trek to Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and crossing of Cho La Pass, curated by The Himalayan Guides, is a transformative journey through the Khumbu region that blends high-altitude […]

17 Days
Hotel & Teahouse
Start from Kathmandu and End to Kathmandu
Min 1 to Max 14 Pax in a group
Air and Land
strenuous

Highlights

  • Set forth on a legendary pilgrimage to the fabled base of Mt. Everest, encircled by majestic spires that pierce the heavens.
  • Hike to the peak of Kala Patthar to witness the striking vistas of Mt. Everest and unparalleled panoramas of Khumbu region.
  • Relax in the turquoise environment of Gokyo Lakes to be enchanted on this adventurous route.
  • Cross the major and most strenuous pass of Khumbu, which is Cho La Pass, navigating glaciers and rocky paths.
  • Ascend the heights of Gokyo Ri, where perchance the grandest vista of Everest and her realm unfurls in sublime splendor.
  • Wander amidst the lively tapestry of Sherpa culture, its storied heritage unfolding with proud tales along the trail.
  • Enchantingly stroll around the towns of Namche and Khumjung to learn key insights of Sherpa Culture.
  • Trek alongside the longer glacier of the Himalayas at Ngozumpa during your adventurous and transformative Everest Journey.

Overview

The trek to Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and crossing of Cho La Pass, curated by The Himalayan Guides, is a transformative journey through the Khumbu region that blends high-altitude challenges with enchanting and breathtaking rewards. This 17-day journey begins in Kathmandu and takes us to the heights of the Khumbu region for the ultimate experiences and a trek that is worthy of every second and penny spent during this trek. We will embark on a trek with unparalleled views all along the way, alongside a rich cultural tapestry. The local Sherpa Villages like Namche Bazaar and Khumjung are the major culturally vibrant places during the trek. The trail will ascend to the Everest Base Camp where we will gloriously stand amidst the iconic peaks like Nuptse and Lhotse.

This Trail to EBC ventures off the primitive and classical route to Gokyo Valley to reach the turquoise and tranquil Gokyo Lakes that provide a unique perspective in the Himalayas. Gokyo Ri climbing is also part of our adventure, as the panoramic views offered from here are unparalleled and probably the best. Meanwhile, crossing Cho La Pass will create havoc and test our resilience and willpower through the glaciers and rocky steeps. Kala Patthar, on the other hand, waits for our arrival with the gigantic view of Mt. Everest, while we have an adventurous journey to reach the EBC.

This journey is deemed of moderate to formidable challenge, testing the mettle of those who tread its paths. It requires good fitness levels of trekkers and demands proper acclimatization and will power to cross the strenuous ranges over elevations of 5000m and longer trekking days. We will stay in cozy teahouses that serve tasty and hearty meals. The rewards will be unparalleled as compared to the difficulties this terrain possesses.

The Himalayan Guides promotes a safe and secure trekking experience with enhanced services by the staff. This odyssey concludes with both safe passage and profound revelations gleaned from its rugged course. Our guides will provide expert guidance and ensure your good health and insight. This trek is ideal for adventure seekers and a culturally immersive odyssey provided with the ultimate Himalayan Experience.

Major Attractions

Everest Base Camp:

We will stand with the Khumbu Glacier surrounded by the towering peaks like Nuptse and Lhotse. This vibrance of Base Camp is proof of our resilience and willpower. Attaining the base camp of Mt. Everest stands as the crowning glory for countless adventurers, a cherished dream checked off life’s grand list. This is one of the best achievements and triumphs in the Himalayan land.

Kala Patthar Summit:

Kala Patthar is the highest we will reach during this trek. This strenuous path provides us with the best views of Everest from a closer perspective. We will hike early to reach with the rising sun to see the golden showers pouring in the Everest Region and offerings of the breathtaking panoramic views of the Khumbu region. The challenging ascent that leads to a rewarding panoramic view of the nearby Himalayas tops the list of major attractions in this trek.

Gokyo Ri and Lakes:

Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri are one of the best yet underrated gems of this route. Gokyo Lakes culminate with the pristine lakes and views of the Himalayas, while the Gokyo Ri is a viewpoint that will offer us the unparalleled views of the Himalayas that are argued to be the best in this route. The serene lakeside village of Gokyo promotes the dramatic alpine scenery at high-altitude terrain that blends naturally secluded beauty with an adventure of high elevation.

Cho La Pass:

Cho La Pass looms as a formidable gauntlet, renowned among the trek’s most daunting and storied routes. This pass joins the Gokyo Valley with the terrain of Everest. We will navigate rocky trails, potential snow, and a glacier that will test our endurance levels. The rewarding views of Ama Dablam and Cholaste will lose our tiredness for a bit. Nevertheless, this will be a tiring yet rewarding day for the climbers.

Namche Bazaar:

Namche Bazaar thrums with vibrant life, a town of yore that served as the beating heart of trade between Nepal and Tibet. This town profoundly endorses itself as one of the major trekkers’ hubs with the bustling markets, cozy cafes, and cultural landmarks. It also provides the beginning views of Mt. Thamserku and Ama Dablam, blending with the cultural glimpse of the Sherpa residing here.

Hotel Everest View:

Hotel Everest View towers at a lofty 3880 meters, proclaiming its glory as the world’s highest bastion of hospitality. The small optional trek towards the Hotel Everest View rewards us with the breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse afar. While sipping a cup of tea/coffee on the terrace of the hotel, we will be stunned by the offerings of the views that are fascinating.

Ngozumpa Glacier:

We will encounter the Ngozumpa Glacier while trekking from Machhermo to Gokyo. This mighty glacier, stretching vast and unbroken, claims the title of the Himalayas’ grandest frozen river. The rugged and otherworldly expanse of ice and moraine will dominate the landscapes that are rewarding near Thangna. The edges of this glacier promote the striking beauty of Nuptse and Cho Oyu. We will have a grand opportunity of creating a surreal and marvelous trekking experience for a lifetime.

Sherpa Culture:

Sherpa Culture is one of the most profound and welcoming cultures in Nepal. We will immerse ourselves in the traditions and cultures of the local Sherpas during our stay in the villages like Phakding, Namche, and Phortse Thanga. The marvel of monasteries and interacting with them provides us the deep insights into Buddhist traditions and their resilient way of life. This cultural connection that is woven into the stunning Himalayas vistas provides heritage to this secluded region.

Why choose this trek

The Himalayan Guides has profoundly crafted this Everest Base  Camp trek with Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass through the less-travelled route to the Khumbu region. This grandeur of trek reveals to us the epic high-altitude adventure with serene cultural immersion that makes this journey a peaceful and adventurous embarkation.

  • We will reach the iconic destinations like Kala Patthar and Everest Base Camp during this trek, which combines with the visit to Gokyo Valley.
  • We will have an opportunity to traverse through the Gokyo Lakes, Cho La Pass, and Ngozumpa glaciers along with EBC and Kala Patthar, which is a combination of diverse landscapes.
  • We will get to engage with the Sherpa culture in Namche Bazaar and the monasteries along the way to immerse ourselves in the culture.
  • This trek tests our endurance and resilience with high-altitude passes and longer trekking days.

Trekking with the Himalayan Guides

At The Himalayan Guides, we craft an enthralling odyssey, plunging deep into the soul of the Himalayas and venturing far beyond its majestic embrace. The Himalayan Guides prioritize adventure, safety, and cultural connection. While we promote sustainable tourism as a theme, we consider that the enjoyment and experience are also equally important. Our decade-long experience and expertise empower the successful trekking experience with authentic encounters. We help you create long-lasting memories whenever you trek or keep your feet in the country of Nepal. Choose The Himalayan Guides for a transformative and thrilling Himalayan adventure.

Itinerary

If you want tailor-made trip or want to personalize this itinerary, just feel free to contact us. We are always there to help you to make your holiday plan. Contact us

Day 01

Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel

Accommodation Hotel
Meals None
Upon the touchdown at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our cordial folk shall greet you warmly and take you to the assigned hotel with care. They will escort you to your lodgings, where you may rest and refresh. We will take you to the local market of Thamel to make last-minute preparations for the trek. You will get a briefing from the assigned guide for the thrilling two weeks of Himalayan Adventure. We rest well and get ready for the exciting two weeks ahead
Day 2

Flight to Lukla from Kathmandu or drive to Manthali/Ramechhap & flight to Lukla and then trek to Phakding

Duration 3
Altitude 2610
Accommodation Teahouse
Meals B L D
If the weather permits, we board an early morning flight to Lukla. This will be a thrilling half-hour flight above the snow-capped Himalayas. We will take the preliminary views of the Himalayas from the air. The trek will start from the town of Lukla, where we will meet our porters and follow the trail alongside the Dudh Koshi river. This introductory trek day offers a gentle start to the trek and helps us acclimate while enjoying nature, prayer wheels, and fluttering prayer flags. Overnight will be in Phakding.
Day 3

Trek to Namche Bazaar from Phakding

We will have some time of descent towards the Dudh Koshi river while we trace towards Phakding. The trail will traverse the vibrant, verdant landscapes and precarious suspension bridges spanning the tumultuous Dudh Koshi River. The steep climb is a sign that we are reaching Namche. We will traverse with the enchanting views of Thamserku and a few opening glimpses of Everest. The day will energise us for the thrilling adventure coming by. Overnight will be spent in a guesthouse in Namche Bazaar.
Day 4

Acclimatization Day at Namche. Hike to Hotel Everest View and back.

We have scheduled a rest day today. This rest day allows us to adapt to the lower oxygen levels and adjust to the higher altitude. Today, we will explore the historically and culturally rich town of Namche Bazaar with the opening panoramic views of the Himalayan grandeur. We can also embark on an optional trek to the renowned Hotel Everest View and explore the culturally rich Sherpa Museum. The hike will ease our bodies, and the visit to Sherpa Village enhances our immersion in the culture of Namche. Overnight in Namche.
Day 5

Trek to Phortse Thanga from Namche

We will trek to Phortse Thanga following a quieter trail off the major route to Everest Base Camp. Across a span of five to six hours, this quest unveils breathtaking visions of Ama Dablam and Thamserku, their peaks a hymn to the heavens. The route will rhododendron forests and small Sherpa villages like Mong La. We will descend to Dudh Koshi River before arriving at Phortse Thanga
Day 6

Trek to Machherma from Phortse Thanga

Today’s Phortse Thanga to Machherma is a 4-5 hour journey through the Gokyo Valley. This trail ascends gradually along the Dush Koshi River, and we will pass the yak pastures and small settlements. There will be vibrant Panoramic views of Cho Oyu and other peaks as we enter the higher altitudes. Machherma is a small village that offers cozy basic teahouses. We will rest in Machherma, acclimating and preparing for a high-altitude trek
Day 7

Trek to Gokyo from Machherma

We will enter the heart-warming Gokyo valley. The trail today will pass through the rugged and stony terrain and beside the glacier moraines. We will also pass through the views of Ngoxumpa Glacier, which is also the longest in the Himalayas. We will find Gokyo nestled beside the tranquility of Gokyo Lakes. Gokyo Lakes are surrounded by snow-capped peaks. We will soak in the serenity of Gokyo Lakes and spend our overnight here
Day 8

Trek to Gokyo Ri and Back to Gokyo

We will rise early and hike to the Gokyo Ri, which is a 2-3 hour climb from the village of Gokyo. This serene viewpoint is famous for the secluded and underrated panoramic vistas of the Everest Region. From the summit, we will be marvelling at the panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. We will get back to Gokyo after this enchanting glimpse. This day combines a challenging hike with unforgettable scenery, making it a highlight of the trek.
Day 9

Trek to Thangna from Gokyo

Today, we will walk for a short time as we will be resting and preparing for the Cho La Pass the next day. In this short hike day we will pass through a short but rugged terrain along the side of Ngozumpa Glacier’s moraine. The trail is rocky and requires a good level of fitness to complete. Thanga is a small settlement with basic teahouses, offering a quiet resting spot at the base of the Cho La Pass. We will rest early to generate enough energy for the strenuous steep tomorrow.
Day 10

Trek to Dzongla from Thangna via Crossing Cho La Pass

We will embark on the major challenge of this trek so far. This will be a long day as we will be trekking for almost 8 hours. This steep ascent involves rocky trails, possible snow, and a glacier crossing and requires careful navigation. The pass will reward us with the staggering views of Ama Dablam and Cholatse. We shall wend downward to Dzongla, there to repose in a humble teahouse, restoring our weary spirits from the day’s toils.
Day 11

Trek to Lobuche from Dzongla

The trek from Dzongla to Lobuche is a 4-5 hour journey that takes us along the Everest Base Camp trail. This path will join us to the main route near the Khumbu Glacier while passing memorials for the climbers lost on Everest. This stark high-altitude landscape offers us the striking views of the Pumori and Nuptse peaks. Lobuche is a small village with some basic teahouses to rest and prepare for the final push to Everest Base Camp. We will stay in Lobuche overnight
Day 12

Trek to Everest Base Camp and then Back to Gorak Shep

We will have a long day of trekking today. We will walk 6-8 hours round trip to Everest Base Camp and descend towards Gorak Shep. We will follow the Khumbu Glacier’s edge to reach the iconic base camp and feel the triumph of this sheer and rare achievement. We shall immerse ourselves in the ethereal aura, akin to the majestic spirits of Nuptse and Lhotse, breathing the essence of the highlands. We will make our moments picturesque to have digital memories and get back to Gorak Shep for our overnight stay
Day 13

Early morning Hike to Kala Patthar and then descend to Dingboche

At dawn’s first light, we shall rouse for a valiant 2-3 hour ascent to Kala Patthar, the crowning summit of this grand trek. This pinnacle peak offers us the unparalleled views of Everest and Nuptse alongside Changtse. We’ll bask in the vibe, then mosey back to Gorak Shep for a hearty midday meal. We will descend to Dingboche for overnight as our official descent starts now.
Day 14

Trek to Namche Bazaar from Dingboche

The downward trek from Dingboche to Namche Bazaar, a journey of six to seven hours, winds through the verdant embrace of the Imja Valley. We shall tread anew the well-known trails, traversing swaying suspension bridges and passing the hallowed grounds of Tengboche Monastery. We will arrive at Namche Bazaar in the early evening and do some strolling around Namche. This arrival will mark a special return to lower altitudes
Day 15

Trek to Lukla from Namche Bazaar

This is our final day of this trek. We will have a trek to Lukla, which is a 6-7 hour descent along the Dudh Koshi River. We will retrace our initial steps as we pass this trail. The path weaves o’er swaying suspension bridges and meanders through the quaint hamlet of Phakding, alive with rustic charm. We will arrive in Lukla in the late afternoon and soak into the atmosphere of this beautiful bustling town and end up celebrating with the crew.
Day 16

Flight back to Kathmandu or Manthali/Ramechhap from Lukla and same day drive to Kathmandu

On this final day of our odyssey, we shall take wing to Kathmandu or Manthali, as the whims of the skies decree. The retraces of magnificent views of the mountains will follow us again for the last time. Only if the weather becomes friendly will we get back to Kathmandu and enjoy the urban amenities. We will have a celebration dinner tonight in Kathmandu, sharing our experience and the journey
Day 17

Transfer to the International Airport for your Final Departure.

Depending on our flight schedule, we will stroll around Kathmandu city to buy some souvenirs after the morning breakfast. Reflecting on our amazing journey to the Gokyo lakes and Gokyo Ri, we will carry the memories of the Himalayan peaks, Sherpa culture, and personal achievement. The friendship made this trek should remain the same until you return. We will see each other soon in Nepal again. Keep in touch with us.

Inclusions

What's included

Meals

The food amenities during the trek will be served in teahouses that offer hearty and simple food to provide us with the needed energy. Menus will feature the generic Nepali staples like Dal Bhat, momos, noodles, pasta, and pancakes. Fresh vegetables will be available in the lower altitudes, while the choices will get lower once we get to the higher altitudes, and there will be dry vegetables. However, the food will be tasty and nutritious. Dietary needs and restrictions can be tweaked with your prior notice.

Accommodation

During the trek to Everest Base Camp with Gokyo lakes and Cho La Pass by The Himalayan Guides, you will enjoy the basic yet cozy and  comfortable stays throughout our voyage. The teahouses and traditional lodges that are run by the locals offer very comfortable and clean rooms with twin bedding and shared bathrooms. Some might provide the services of hot showers and device charging facilities. The dining areas will be warm enough, and bedrooms might not be enough against the cold, so it is recommended to bring sleeping bags for yourselves. These rustic stays will provide enough cultural immersion and chances to connect with fellow trekkers.

Add-ons

  • Airport transfers: Airport pickup and drop off services will be provided!

What's not included

Group Departures

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to do the EBC with Gokyo Lake and Cho La Pass trek?

The better and most favorable time for the voyage of Everest Region and particularly this terrain, is always spring and autumn. As they have the best temperature and views to offer.

How difficult is this trek, and what fitness level is required?

This trek will be moderately to highly challenging due to the high altitudes and longer trekking days. We will cross Cho La Pass, which involves steep and rocky terrain and potentially the snow-covered areas. Hence, this journey stands renowned as a formidable trial, testing the spirit of those who dare its paths.

What type of accommodation can we expect during the trek?

We will stay in basic but cozy and comfortable teahouses. These teahouses will be of twin-sharing bedrooms with simple bedding and shared bathrooms. Higher altitudes have more basic setups due to remoteness.

 What food is available on the trek?

Food during the trek will be very tasty and nutritious, but the menu will be limited due to remote areas. Meals like dal bhat, momos, noodles, and western dish options like pasta and pancakes will be easily available.

 Is travel insurance necessary for this trek?

The Himalayan Guides strongly recommends having travel insurance as it covers medical emergencies, including altitude sickness. Make sure your travel insurance covers the recovery of mishaps in altitudes over 5000m.

 What cultural experiences can we expect on this trek?

This trek offers a rich experience of cultural immersion throughout the trek. We will get ample opportunities for exploring the local cultures in Namche Bazaar and Phortse Thanga. The Sherpa Community will be hospitable and helpful.

 How do guides and porters support the trek?

The Himalayan Guides will provide experienced, well-spoken professionals who ensure safe navigation and share cultural insights. Both the guides and porters are well trained in first aid.

 What are the major highlights of this trek?

The crowning glories of this odyssey encompass the fabled Everest Base Camp, the soaring Kala Patthar, the daunting Cho La Pass, the shimmering Gokyo Lakes, and the majestic Gokyo Ri. This trek is an ultimate package for a thrilling adventure.

 How do we prepare for altitude on this trek?

We can prepare with proper rest, hydration, and well-managed altitude gain for this trek. This trek is scheduled to have an acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar, and gradual aris e slow andgradualt. If your health is good, then your body must adapt to the condition.