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Nepal

Everest Basecamp + Gokyo Lakes Trek - 18 Days

Experience Everest Basecamp and the magical Gokyo lake system

Everest Basecamp + Gokyo Lakes Trek - 18 Days

Experience Everest Basecamp and the magical Gokyo lake system

Climb to the top of Gokyo Ri, and experience Everest Base Camp. At the summit, you will have amazing views of Everest the tallest mountain in the world, soaring almost five and a half miles into the sky. With 360º views of snow capped mountains and glaciers. The magical turquoise waters of the Gokyo Lakes are one of Nepal’s hidden gems. These lakes are the highest freshwater lake system in the world. The Gokyo Lakes route to Everest Basecamp is ideal for people who want to trek in the Everest region, but want a more unique and remote experience. Offering a wide variety of scenery, and landscapes that will burn images in your memories for a lifetime.

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Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu 1300 m (4264 ft)

Elevation: 1300 m (4264 ft)

A FlashpackerConnect representative will meet you at Tribhuwan International Airport, where you will be transported to your hotel, we have a free time today to explore a little in Kathmandu.

Day 2: Kathmandu: Sightseeing and trek preparation

We explore four of UNESCO World Heritage Sites on this day. Buddhist Shrine Bouddhanath, Swayambhunath ‘Monkey Temple’, Durbar Square and the most sacred hindu temple in the world Pashupatinath. These sites are very important in the valley of Kathmandu, culturally and religiously. The value of architecture and history is very high for Nepalese. Later we prepare for the trip (last minute shopping, trip preparation).

Day 3: Fly to Lukla , trek to Phakding

Elevation: 2,800 m (9,184 ft)
Hiking Time: 3 - 4 hours

During the 40-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (9,186ft), we enjoy one of the most beautiful air routes in the world culminating on a hillside surrounded by high mountainous peaks. At Lukla, a gateway destination from where our trek begins, we meet our other crew members and begin packing and arranging with them. From Lukla, we start trekking. At one hour’s gradual descent, we will be at a Cheplung village from where we have a glimpse of Mt. Khumbila (18900 ft), a sacred mountain which has never been climbed. From Cheplung, we then gradually descend until we reach Phakding and spend the night.

Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 4 & 5: Phakding to Namche Bazaar

Elevation: 3,440 m (11,283 ft)
Hiking Time: 5 - 6 hours

Day 4: Phakding to Namche Bazaar 3,438m (11,280 ft): 11km, 5 - 6 hours

After breakfast we start our trek, we will hike along the Dudh Koshi River crossing it several times with the help of high strung suspension bridges. We will passing through villages, mane (Chortens) and monasteries. Today we will have a good views of the impressive masstif of Mt. Thamserku at 6,623 meters on our right. Today we will enter inside Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park after we reach the village of Monjo. We will have our lunch at Jorshalle,the last village before Namche Bazar. From here the walk is nice and easy through a riverbed, and the the trail starts to accent as we cross one more famous suspension bridge called Hillary suspension bridge. An amazing view of Mt. Taboche, Kwangde, Everest, Thamserku, Lhotse will welcome us to the land of Sherpa!

Day 5: Namche Bazaar: acclimatization day

Our first acclimatization which is very important for us to adjust will be here in Namche Bazar, it will prevent us from getting AMS Acute Mountain Sickness. To acclimate we will go for a short hike around the village, to the headquarters of Nation park is at the top of Namche Bazar from here we will enjoy the view of the valley we came through. Mt. Kusumkanguru, Mt Thamserku, Mt Ama Dablam Everest and many more can be seen from here. In the evening we explore Khumjung village where we can visit the monastery where they have a Yeti scalp, and rest the remaining part of the evening.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 & 7: Namche Bazaar to Machhermo

Elevation: 3810 m (12,496 ft)
Hiking Time: : 5 - 6 hours

Day 6: Namche Bazaar to Phortse Thanga 3,680m (12,073ft): 6km, 5-6 hours

We climb the Khumjung hill and descend to the east of the village down the broad valley leading to the Dudh Koshifrom where the route turns north. There are two trails and our guide will choose the best option for us to follow. There is a chorten on the ridge top at 3973 m which descends from Mt. Khumbila (5761 m). We visit Mohang, the birth place of the reincarnated Lama of Rongbuk Monastery of Tibet who is believed to have introduced Buddhism in the Khumbu region of Nepal. The trail descends in a series of steep switchbacks down a sandy slope to the Dush Koshi. We stay overnight in Phortse Tanga, near the river.

Day 7: Phortse Thanga to Machhermo 4,470m (14,663ft): 10km, 4-5 hours

From Phortse Thanga it is an uphill climb to Machhermo. We walk on a trail alongside a rhododendron forest and pass through a waterfall before reaching Tongba Village. We continue our uphill trek and pass through Dhole, Labarma and Luza villages before reaching Machhermo. There is a Chhorten right before the Luza village.Throughout today’s journey we will be walking alongside the Dudh Koshi River. Overnight in Machhermo.

Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 8 & 9: Machhermo to Gokyo Ri

Elevation: 5357 m (17,570 ft)
Hiking Time: 5 - 6 hours

Day 8: Machhermo to Gokyo 4,800 m (15,744 ft): 7km, 4-5 hours

We begin today by climbing a ridge for an excellent view down the valley to Kangtaiga and also up towards Cho Oyu (8153 m). The valley now widens as the trail passes through Phangkha, where an avalanche in 1995 killed 40 people.We then descend to the riverbank before climbing onto the terminal moraine of the Ngazumpa Glacier on a steep trail. Upon crossing an iron bridge over a stream, the trail levels out as it follows the valley past the first lake, known as Longpongo, at 4690 m. At this juncture, we get a chance to observe lama footprints on a stone. At the sight of the second lake, Taboche Tsho, we become mesmerized by the shimmering turquoise blue sheet of water sparkling in the sun. Little ahead of the second lake, we reach the third lake, the two linked by a surging stream. Gokyo village stands by the third lake and Cho-Oyu Mountain as a backdrop sets an amazing spectacular sight here. After lunch, we explore around the third lake, Dudh Pokhari. Overnight in Gokyo.

Day 9: Gokyo Valley: Acclimatization Day - Optional Hike to Gokyo Ri 5357 m (17,570 ft): 2km, 3 - 4 hours

We will hike to Gokyo Ri, a small peak above Gokyo village, in the morning and savor the fantastic views of the entire Khumbu region. As we ascend, the views become even more fantastic and we can see four of the seven highest peaks of Nepal, Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse and Makalu. Reaching the fourth lake, Thonak Tsho we take pleasure in the lake’s serene beauty after which we trek back along the retracing trail to the third lake. We may take an additional hike up to the fifth lake, Ngozumba Tsho if time permits and depending on our physical conditions. From here, the view of Ngozumba glacier, the longest glacier of the Himalayas, is so fascinating. Overnight in Gokyo.

Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 10 & 11: Gokyo to Dzongla

Elevation: 4800 m (15,744 ft)
Hiking Time: 5 - 8 hours

Day 10: Gokyo to Thagnak 4750 m (15,580 ft): 4km, 3 - 4 hours

If we did not climb the Gokyo Ri the previous day, we can do that today. Climbing to the top of Gokyo Ri is demanding as it is steep and takes about 3 to 4 hours to reach the top. But the scenery of Gokyo village, on the edge of third lake overlooked by Cholatse and the broad Nogzumpa Glacier, is magnificent. We are surrounded by panoramic mountains like Kusum Kanguru, Thamserku, Kangtega, Taboche, Cholatse, Makalu, Lhotse, Nuptse,Everest, Changtse, and Pumori. The sight of sun rays kissing Everest which towers over all the surrounding peaks is astounding. We trek through the Ngazumpa Glacier to the mountain on the other side. Next, traverse along the edge of that mountain and then meander into Thagnak. It will be a short hike today with an afternoon of rest which will prepare us for long hiking days and elevation gain to come.

Day 11: Thagnak to Cho La pass 5,367m (17,604 ft) to Dzongla (15, 939 ft): 7km, 7 - 8 hours

Today is going to be one of the toughest days of the trip. The Cho La pass is not itself difficult, but it is steep and involves a glacier traverse on the eastern side. We need to be careful as the trail is vertical and the rocks glazed by ice may cause trouble by making the trail slippery. The trail from Phedi climbs through a ravine and a rocky trail. While trekking through the side of a frozen lake, we reach at the top of the pass decorated with prayer flags. The pyramidal Ama Dablam presides over a range of mountains on the south even as Cholatse soars to the west and Lobuche East and Baruntse rises sharply to our right. We need to pass through some crevasses before we reach Dzongla Village. The village provides great views of Cholatse, Ama Dablam, Lobuche mountains along with the Pheriche Village far below.

Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 12 & 13: Dzongla to Everest Basecamp

Hiking Time: 3 - 7 hours

Day 12: Dzongla to Lobuche 4940 m (16,207 ft): 6km, 2 - 3 hours

This will be a very short trek so we have a lot time to relax and enjoy the beauty that surrounds us. We climb down from Dzongla and walk through a grassy trail while enjoying the view of Lobuche Peak. The trail curves through the wide river bed before reaching Lobuche. We can spend the rest of day taking a rest which will help us prepare for the next day’s long trek. Overnight in Lobuche.

Day 13: Lobuche to Gorak Shep 5,170 m (16,961ft), visit Everest Base Camp 5,364 m (17,594 ft): 13km, 6-7hours
We take the trail to Everest Base Camp through the once vast Gorak Shep Lake. The path from here can be misleading; hence, it is important that we follow our lead Sherpa diligently. The walk is strenuous due to thin air in the high altitude. We pass through rocky dunes, moraine and streams before reaching the Everest Base Camp. Upon reaching the Everest Base Camp, we see tents of mountaineers that stand out in bright colors against the monotony of gray surroundings (especially in the spring). Nuptse, Khumbuste and Pumori are the mountains we can view from the base camp. We get back to Gorak Shep for a good night's rest. Overnight in Gorak Shep.

However, the sunset view from Kala Patthar is more admirable than the sunrise view, so it is recommended that we visit Kala Patthar today during sunset. As the setting sun's rays strike the snow-capped mountains, the resulting scenery is incredible. Therefore, for those trekkers who wish to continue to Kala Patthar today instead of the next day please inform your guide and he/she will coordinate accordingly.

Included meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 14 & 15: Gorak Shep to Namche Bazaar

Hiking Time: 4 - 7 hours

Day 14: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar 5,545m (18,192ft) to Pherice 4,288m (14,070ft): 16km, 7-8 hours

We prepare for an early morning departure, amid pre-dawn darkness and cold temperatures (-10 to -14 C). Plus, there is always the potential for chilly winds which are quite common. Familiar peaks such as Lingtren, Khumbutse,and Changtse tower to the east even as Everest begins to reveal itself. But, it is upon reaching Kala Patthar where we get to see 360 degree up-close and formidable views of Mt. Everest. We take pictures, enjoy the magnificent mountain panorama, and then return back to Lobuche for a good night's rest. Overnight in Lobuche.

Day 15: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar: 20km, 6 - 7 hours

We trek down through the hillside blanketed by rhododendron and juniper trees. After crossing the prayer-flag bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, our trail follows the Dudh Koshi gorge descending rapidly through pine forests. In the forest, we may come across colorful pheasants and mountain goats. The path eventually reachesSansa from where we can enjoy views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Nuptse mountains. We also pass winding trails then through a forest before reaching Namche Bazaar. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.

Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 16 & 17: Namche Bazaar to Kathmadu

Hiking Time: 6 - 8 hours

Day 16: Namche Bazaar to Lukla 2,800m (9,186ft): 19km, 6 - 7 hours

The trail descends steeply downward so we need to walk cautiously as our shaky legs continuously battle the rocky terrain. After crossing the suspension bridges over the fast flowing Dudh Koshi and its tributaries, the trail becomes more level and natural. After our arrival in Lukla, we stretch those sore legs and recall the experiences of the last couple of days. Overnight in Lukla.

Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 17: Fly to Kathmandu

We catch an early morning flight to Kathmandu after our long mountain journey. After reaching Kathmandu, we can take a rest or do some souvenir shopping. If we want to explore any other areas of Kathmandu, we may do that today. Our guides can help you with both souvenir shopping or sightseeing. There will be a farewell dinner in the evening to celebrate the successful completion of our journey. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Included meals:Breakfast

Day 18: Fly back home

Your adventure in Nepal comes to an end today! There is nothing to do but trade emails with your travel companions and organize your photos. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.

Included meals: Breakfast

Additional Trip Info

  • Hotel room in Kathmandu
  • An experienced, English speaking and government licensed trek leader and assistant trek leader
  • All government and local taxes
  • A comprehensive medical kit
  • All necessary paperwork and permits (National park permit)
  • Trekking Map
  • Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flight
  • Domestic airport and hotel transfers
  • Guided city tour in Kathmandu
  • Entrance fees sightseeing/monument visits as per the itinerary
  • Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, domestic airfare, food and accommodation
  • Porters

  • Excess baggage charges
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu (and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
  • Travel Insurance - We recommend  World Nomads, or Global Rescue
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, big thermos water/tea, shower etc)

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