Everest Base Camp Trek Via Gokyo Lakes: A Himalayan Adventure
Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Ri and Gokyo Lakes
Embark on a captivating journey with the Everest Base Camp via the Gokyo Lakes Trek, a mesmerising adventure set in the heart of the Himalayas. This expedition seamlessly combines the renowned Everest Base Camp route with the pristine beauty of Gokyo’s azure lakes. Commencing in Lukla, your trek unfolds through the awe-inspiring Gokyo Valley, unveiling the mesmerising Gokyo Lakes and presenting you with the exhilarating challenge of conquering the formidable Renjo La Pass, all while providing unparalleled mountain vistas that will leave you in awe.
Major Highlights of the Everest Base Camp Trek Via Gokyo Lakes
- Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu
- Breathtaking flight to Phaplu and Lukla to Kathmandu.
- Get to know about Shepra Culture, their religion and lifestyles.
- Visit Tengboche Monastery
- Trekking through Cho La pass above 5000m.
- Sparkling Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri.
- Remarkable views of the Khumbu Icefall.
- Hike up to Kala Patthar (5555m) & Nangkartshang Peak (5083)m
- Trek to Everest base camp and Khumbu glacier.
- Get close to the world's highest mountains. Mt.Everest (8848.86m)
Cost
The Cost Includes
- Pick up and drop facilities from Airport-Hotel-Airport (by private car)
- Full day city tour by private vehicle.
- Welcome and farewell dinner at typical Nepali restaurant with live cultural program.
- Stays in 3 star standard hotels or clean lodge/guest houses during the trek. (as per availability)
- Every meals during the trek.( breakfast, lunch, dinner, including tea and coffees)
- Seasonable fresh fruit.
- Experienced, well trained, English speaking guide with all his expenses, insurance, equipment during your travel period.(4:1)
- One porter for each two member in a group (with all his expenses, insurance, equipment during your travel period)
- Entrance fees for sightseeing/monument visits as per itinerary.
- Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion)
- Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
- All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (national Park Permit, TIMS)
- Domestic flights (Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu)
- All government and local taxes.
The Cost Excludes
- Tips for guides porters and drivers
- Nepalese visa fee.
- Extra night accommodation due to any reason in Kathmandu.
- Extra luggage charge.
- Person expenses not included in the itinerary
Proposed Itinerary for the Gokyo Lakes Route of the Everest Base Camp Trek
Arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Transfer to your hotel, where you'll receive a briefing and get your documents in order.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Kathmandu.
Early morning flight to Lukla, a thrilling start to the adventure.
Trek to Phakding, a picturesque village situated alongside the Dudh Koshi River.
Overnight stay in Phakding.
Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant heart of the Khumbu region.
Enjoy the stunning scenery and charming Sherpa villages along the way.
Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
Trek from Namche Bazaar to Phortse Thanga, a peaceful village in the Himalayas.
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of the Khumbu region.
Overnight stay in Phortse Thanga.
Trek from Phortse Thanga to Machhermo, passing through alpine landscapes.
Enjoy the serene surroundings and the first glimpses of the Himalayan peaks.
Overnight stay in Machhermo.
Continue your journey, trekking from Machhermo to Gokyo, the gateway to the Gokyo Lakes.
Witness the turquoise lakes and the stunning mountain vistas.
Overnight stay in Gokyo.
Acclimatization day in Gokyo, with the option to hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for panoramic views.
Explore the picturesque Gokyo Valley and take in the serene beauty.
Overnight stay in Gokyo.
Trek from Gokyo to Thagnak, a tranquil destination on the trail.
Experience the serenity of this remote location.
Overnight stay in Thagnak.
Depart early from Thagnak for the challenging trek via Cho La Pass.
Reach the summit of Cho La Pass (5,420m) and savor the breathtaking views.
Descend to Dzongla (4,830m) after a demanding day of trekking.
Overnight stay in Dzongla.
Depart from Dzongla and trek to Lobuche, a key stop on the journey to Everest Base Camp.
Enjoy the views of the Khumbu Valley and the surrounding peaks.
Overnight stay in Lobuche.
Trek to Gorak Shep, the last teahouse settlement before Everest Base Camp.
Hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and relish the iconic moment.
Return to Gorak Shep for the night.
Early morning ascent to Kala Patthar (5,545m) for sunrise views of Everest and the surrounding peaks.
Descend to Pheriche (4,371m) for a well-earned rest.
Overnight stay in Pheriche.
Trek from Pheriche to Namche Bazaar, retracing your steps through picturesque landscapes.
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Namche Bazaar.
Overnight stay in Namche Bazaar.
Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla, the final leg of your trek.
Reflect on your journey and enjoy the familiar surroundings.
Overnight stay in Lukla.
Morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu.
Explore the vibrant city of Kathmandu, including cultural and historical sites.
Last-minute shopping and a farewell dinner in the evening.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Final day in Kathmandu, with some free time for last-minute activities.
Check-out from the hotel, transfer to Tribhuvan
FAQs
The hardest part of the Everest Base Camp trek is often considered to be dealing with the high altitude and its effects on the body. Altitude sickness, such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue caiuses as the oxygen level ceases. Acclimatization is crucial, and the slow pace of the trek helps mitigate the risks. Additionally, unpredictable weather conditions, and the crossing of high mountain passes can present physical challenges. However, with proper preparation, a gradual approach, and determination, these obstacles can be overcome, and the rewarding experience of reaching Everest Base Camp makes it all worthwhile.
Gokyo Ri, a trekking peak in the Khumbu region, is perched above Gokyo Valley on the western side of the Ngozumpa glacier. Typically, it’s a two-hour hike from Gokyo, the duration varying based on individual fitness levels. Atop Gokyo Ri, one can behold a breathtaking panorama featuring four majestic 8,000-meter peaks.
Gokyo Lakes is situated approximately 27 kilometers (17 miles) west of Everest Base Camp in the Everest region of Nepal. The distance between Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp adds an element of exploration and diversity to the trek, allowing trekkers to experience the best of both destinations in this stunning region.
Yes, from Gokyo Lakes, trekkers can enjoy spectacular views of Mount Everest (8,848 meters), the highest peak in the world. Gokyo Lakes is located on the western side of the Everest region and offers a different perspective compared to the views from the Everest Base Camp. From Gokyo Ri, a nearby viewpoint that is often climbed for panoramic vistas, trekkers are treated to a breathtaking sight of Everest along with other majestic Himalayan peaks like Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Ngozumpa Glacier.
The best time to trek to Everest Base Camp is Spring i.e. (from March to May) or during autumn i.e (September to December) the temperature in these seasons guarantees promising and breathtaking views. However temperature reaches below 0 in December yet we can enjoy the mesmerizing views. It’s essential to check the latest weather forecasts and conditions before planning the trek for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
In comparison, the standard Everest Base Camp Trek is a shorter route than the Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes Trek by three days. Opting for the Gokyo Lakes route extends the journey, allowing trekkers to immerse themselves in the stunning scenic beauty of the Gokyo Lakes, enhancing the overall trekking experience.
The best route for reaching Everest Base Camp is typically the classic route from Lukla to Base Camp via Namche Bazaar. This route offers a well-established and popular path taken by most trekkers, providing a good balance between manageable acclimatization, stunning scenery, and the cultural experience of Sherpa villages. Starting from Lukla, the trek passes through the vibrant Namche Bazaar, allowing trekkers to gradually adjust to the altitude and enjoy the mesmerizing views of the Everest region. It’s a well-trodden path, ensuring access to teahouses and facilities, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a well-structured and rewarding journey to the base of the world’s highest peak.
There are several routes for the Everest Base Camp Trek, each offering a unique experience. The most popular and traditional route starts from Lukla, passing through Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and finally reaching Everest Base Camp. Another common route is the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes, where trekkers visit the beautiful Gokyo Valley and its turquoise lakes before rejoining the main trail to Everest Base Camp. Some variations include the Three Passes Trek, which involves crossing high passes like Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La, providing additional challenges and breathtaking views. The Jiri to Everest Base Camp route begins with a scenic drive to Jiri, extending the trek by about a week. Each route caters to different preferences, time constraints, and levels of difficulty, allowing trekkers to choose the one that best suits their adventure goals.
The cost for a Gokyo Ri Trek per person usually falls within the range of USD 1400 to USD 2500. This encompasses expenses like permits, travel, accommodation, guide, porter services, and other necessary costs. The overall price can fluctuate based on the season of your trek and the specific activities you intend to engage in during your journey. So update from official website.
Certainly! The distance from Kathmandu to Everest Base Camp is approximately 200 to 300 kilometers. The journey commences with a 30 to 35-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla Airport, where the actual trek begins and ends. Throughout the Everest Base Camp Trek, you’ll typically trek for about 6 to 7 hours daily, adjusting based on the trekking agency’s package and itinerary and each days you need to complete 15 km of trek. Trekking days can vary, sometimes being shorter or longer, depending on the specific plan and route provided by the trekking agency.
While the Everest Base Camp Trek isn’t overwhelmingly challenging, we strongly advise some training and physical fitness. It’s essential to be mentally resilient and maintain a positive mindset throughout the trek. Adequate preparation involves understanding what to do and what not to do in case of an emergency, ensuring a smoother experience. Having the right gear is crucial. To embark on the Everest Base Camp Trek, prioritize physical fitness and mental preparedness for a safe and enjoyable journey amidst the stunning Himalayas.
