Detailed Itinerary —
Gokyo Valley and EBC Via Chola Pass– 19 Days
Everest Base Camp. Nestled in the northeastern part of the country, the Khumbu region is a wonder in itself. Landscape coved with soring high mountains, glaciers, icefalls, high altitude lakes, and breathtaking landscapes. In this tour trek through changing landscapes and microclimates. To the base of Mt. Everest and scale the renowned vantage point of Kala Patthar. At last head back towards Lukla, witnessing grand views of the region and Everest Base camp Trek take you across the classic trekking route of Nepal and the planet. The Everest region is a dream destination for travelers, trekkers, mountain, and nature lovers. This trek takes you to various landscapes and horizons, from the lush deep wilderness of central Nepal, high alpine grounds, pasture lands, following river networks, glaciers and icefalls, lakes, and mountains. To the foothills of the highest mountains on the planet. Make your dream into reality and head on this journey with the Alpine Club of Himalaya.
Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake is the doorway to the Himalaya’s most spectacular, majestic, and stunning vistas. The Everest region is located in the northeastern part of the country. The elevation ranges from 3,300 meters (11,000 feet) to the 8,848.86 m (29,032 ft) summit of Mount Everest. Having a wide range of biodiversity and microclimates. In this 19 days trek, experience the wonders of the Khumbu region learning about the culture and traditions of the mountain people. Visiting ancient monasteries, chortens, and gompas, getting a true insight into ancient culture clinging to the foothills of the Himalayas.
Trek Overview
The Everest Base Camp Trek is a legendary journey that takes you through the heart of the Himalayas, culminating at the foot of the world’s tallest mountain, Mount Everest. It’s an experience that combines breathtaking scenery, rich Sherpa culture, and a personal challenge of acclimatization and endurance.
The adventure begins in Kathmandu, Nepal’s vibrant capital city. Here, you’ll have time to explore ancient temples, bustling bazaars, and soak in the unique atmosphere of this historic city. Then, comes the highlight – a thrilling flight to Lukla.
Day 1: 28th February -Kathmandu (1400 meters)
The flight to Nepal is mesmerizing with grand views of endless snowcapped peaks, lush green hills, and scattered settlements. Upon arriving at Tribhuvan international airport, a representative of ours will assist you with your accommodation. Upon reaching your accommodation rest for a while. Later head out on a stroll around Kathmandu, the valley has a collection of various natural and cultural landmarks. Head towards various ancient temples and Stupas of the region and get insights into the life of the people.
Later in the afternoon join in for a briefing about the trek. Your team leader and guide will provide you with vital information regarding the trek. After the briefing joins in for a welcome dinner program with your team and guide.
Meals – No
Day 2: 1st March -Sightseeing Kathmandu (1,400 meters/ 4593 feet)
After breakfast head on a full-day sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu valley also known as, the “city of glory.” The valley has various attractions that you can choose from, visit Durbar Square, the epicenter of religious and cultural life, an area filled with old temples and palaces having historical significance with glorious old architecture. Some of the sights include Kal Bhairav, Hanuman Dhoka, Taleju Temple, Kasthamandap, and Kumari Ghar a home to the Living Goddess.
Afterwards headtowrds Swoyambhunath Stupa also known as the monkey temple, said to be one of the oldest Buddhist stupas in the world, which is majestically set high on a hill overlooking Kathmandu Valley, with panoramic view of the mountain ranges to the north. Next, proceed towards Pashupatinath Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, this massive temple complex sits alongside the banks of the holy Bagmati River. Only Hindus are allowed to enter the courtyard of the temple, whereas tourists can see the temple from the eastern side of the Bagmati River. Later we visit Boudhanath, another Buddhist Stupa and one of the largest in the world. This massive structure stands tall with four pairs of eyes each facing the four cardinal directions, watching for the righteous behavior of mankind and for human prosperity.
Meals- Breakfast and Welcome dinner
Day 3:2nd March – Kathmandu to Lukla by Flight and Trek to Phakding (2652 meters)
Head towards the domestic airport early in the morning and board a flight towards Lukla. The flight takes you over scattered settlements and lush deep rolling hills with views of snowcapped Himalayas. After a 45 minutes flight, you will reach the small settlement of Lukla perched on a hilltop. The airstrip was established by Sir Edmund Hillary and the Sherpas in the mid-1960s. Upon landing at Lukla and after a brief rest head towards the village of Phakding.
Following the trial, you will first reach Chauri Kharka a beautiful settlement, from here traversing along the banks of Dudh Koshi River will lead you to the settlement of Ghat at an elevation of 2550 meters. Along the way witness the sacred peak of Khumbila, one of the few unclimbed peaks of the Khumbu region. After a brief walk, you will reach Phakding nestled at 2,610 meters, a tiny Sherpa town hidden in the verdant Dudh Koshi Valley.
Meals- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4: 3rd March -Namche Bazaar (3446 meters)
Today you will be heading towards the Sherpa capital, known as Namche Bazaar. A bustling settlement of the Khumbu region where you will be finding basic to grandeur services on the laps of the mountains.
Following the milky glacial river of Dudh Koshi and traversing along woodlands covered with pines, cider, and verities of rhododendron and eventually crossing the river at Benkar. From this section of the trail, you will witness views of snow-capped Kusum Kanguru at an elevation of 6,369 meters and Thamserku at 6,623 meters.
From here the trail leads you to Monjo, a settlement at an elevation of 2835 meters. At Monjo stop for lunch and again head towards the trail, ascending on hilltops with inclined sections, crossing several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge, before
approaching the Sagarmatha National Park. At the park’s gate make sure your permits are ready for inspection. Next head towards Jorsale and after crossing a high suspension bridge, begin your ascent towards Namche Bazaar. As you progress on the trail you will reach Tope Danda, from here witnessing the first glimpse of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Taweche. Upon reaching Namche head towards your tea house, and later head out to explore the region. The area has various pubs, restaurants, and various other attractions.
Meals- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5: 4th March -Namche Bazaar Acclimatization (3446 meters)
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 the biodiversity of the region. After exploring the region head back towards Namche, along the way witness the grand views of dusk.
Meals- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 6 : 5th March -Namche (3,440 Meters/ 11,286 Feet) to Phortse Thanga (3,680 m). Trekking Time: 5-6 Hours.
Today’s trek begins on the wider, scenic trail from Namche Bazaar to Kenjoma, offering breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other majestic peaks. The trail leads to Kenjoma, where the paths for Gokyo & Everest Base Camp split.
From Kenjoma, the route ascends steadily towards Mong La, a small settlement perched on a ridge with stunning mountain vistas. After a short break, the trail descends through rhododendron and pine forests, leading to the riverside village of Phortse Thanga.
Although today’s trek is relatively shorter compared to other days, we’ll stop at Phortse Thanga to allow proper acclimatization. If you arrive in time for lunch, you can enjoy a leisurely afternoon and take an optional hike to nearby hills for additional exploration.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: 6th March -Trek from Phortse Thanga to Machherma (4,470 m)- Trekking Time: 5-6 Hours.
We climb a ridge for an excellent view both down the valley to Kengtega and up towards Cho Oyu and descend to a river and again climbs steep to the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpa glacier. We will reach Machherma by early noon.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 -7th March -Phortse to Gokyo (4,790 Meters/ 15,715 Feet). Trekking Time: 5-6 Hours.
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
Day 9 :8th March – Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,483 Meters/ 17,988 Feet) and Back to Gokyo and Stay overnight
Early in the morning, a challenging ascent awaits as trekkers make their way up to the summit of Gokyo Ri, situated at an impressive elevation of 5,483 m/17,988 ft.
The effort is well rewarded, as from the top, breathtaking views unfold, showcasing the super Gokyo valley and the immense Ngozumpa glacier.
Moreover, an awe-inspiring panoramic vista of the entire Khumbu Himalayas emerges, revealing the majestic peaks of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cho-Oyu, and Gychung Kang.
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.
Stay overnight at Hotel at Gokyo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10 : 9th March -Gokkyo to Thangnak (4,500 Meters/14,763 Feet). Trekking Time: 4-5 Hours.
After breafkst we will get ready to head to Thangnak. after a brief meeting and refreshment , we 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
Day 11 : 10th March -Thangnak (4,500 Meters/ 14,763 Feet) to Dzongla (4,830 Meters/ 15,846 Feet) Via Cross Chola Pass (5,368 Meters/ 17,611 Feet). Trekking Time: 6-9 Hours.
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
Day 12 :11th March – Dzongla (4,830 Meters/ 15,846 Feet) to Lobuche (4,910 Meters/ 16,108 Feet). Trekking Time: 4-5 Hours.
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
Day 13 : 12th March -Lobuche (4,910 Meters/ 16,108 Feet) to Everest Base Camp (5,365 Meters/17,601 Feet) and to Gorak Shep (5,180 Meters/ 16,994 Feet). Trekking Time: 6-7 Hours.
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
Day 14: 13th March Kala Patthar – Pheriche (4270 meters)
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 breakfast head towards Pheriche. Traversing on a downhill section you will cross the settlements of Lobuche and Thukla, where you will stop for lunch. After, walking across the banks of Khumbu Khola cross the river and head down towards
Cholatse and finally to Pheriche.
Meals – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 15: 14th March -Namche Bazaar (3346 meters)
Start your trek but crossing the rapids of Khumbu Khola and ascending a steep ridge having sheer cliffs with views of Imja Valley, Mt. Ama Dablam, and Kantega. Progressing on the trail you will descend to the tiny settlements of Orsho and Shomare before heading towards Lower Pangboche. From here cross the Imja Khola River, then ascend back towards Thyangboche.
At Thyangboche visit the ancient monastery of the region. According to the legends, Lama Sange Dorjee, who came from Tibet’s Rongphu Monastery, founded Thyangboche Monastery in the 17th century. Thyangboche was destroyed by an earthquake in 1933, rebuilt, and again badly damaged by a fire in 1989. Construction of the present monastery was completed in 1992. Explore the area and start friendly talks with the monks and get an insight into the culture and life of the people.
After a brief exploration, descending on a woodland covered with juniper, rhododendron, and fir you will reach Phunkitenga, from here crossing the Dudh Koshi River and ascend towards Trashinga. Following the high route above the valley via Shanasa you will reach the settlement of Namche Bazaar.
Meals – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 16: 15th March -Trek back to Namche Bazzar (3440 meters/11286 feet)
From Tengboche, move towards Phunki Tenga and descend to Sanasa and Kyangjuma, and then finally to Namche Bazar. Along the trail, you’ll pass across subtropical wet hill forest of rhododendron, the mixture of conifers, oaks with orchid and moss-draped trees, and miles of undergrowth. Once you reach Namche Bazar head towards your accommodation and later explore the area, there are various restaurants and pubs around the area.
Meals – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 17: 16th March -Trek back Lukla (2860 meters/ 9383 feet)
Today start walking to Namche Bazaar on a downhill hike along the Dudh Koshi River route before arriving at Lukla, cross multiple suspension bridges, and pass through various ancient monasteries and settlements. Once you arrive at Lukla rest later and celebrate your last day in the mountains.
Meals – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 18: 17th March -Fly Back to Kathmandu
After breakfast heads towards the Lukla airstrip and catches an early flight to Kathmandu. Upon landing at Kathmandu head towards your accommodation. If you want to, we can arrange a guided tour of the city, or you can stroll on your own. In the evening join in for a farewell dinner program to mark the success of your trek with your team members and our representatives.
Meals – Breakfast
