Gokyo Via Ebc Trek

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Trip Overview


Overview

The Gokyo via Ebc Trek is a mesmerizing adventure that takes trekkers through the stunning landscapes of the Everest region in Nepal. This exhilarating journey also combines the breathtaking beauty of the Gokyo Lakes and the iconic Everest Base Camp, providing an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Starting from the bustling city of Kathmandu, the trek begins with a scenic flight to Lukla, a small mountain airstrip. From there, the trek gradually ascends through charming Sherpa villages, lush forests, and picturesque valleys. The route also offers breathtaking views of towering peaks, including Everest (8,848 meters), Lhotse (8,516 meters), Makalu (8,485 meters), and Cho Oyu (8,201 meters). One of the highlights of the Gokyo via Ebc Trek is the Gokyo Lakes. These turquoise-colored high-altitude lakes situated in a tranquil valley, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The trek also offers ample time to explore the Gokyo region, allowing trekkers to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the lakes and hike up Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters) for a panoramic view of the Himalayan giants. Continuing the journey, trekkers will make their way towards Everest Base Camp. Following the legendary Khumbu Glacier, the trail passes through rugged terrain and reaches Gorak Shep, the last settlement before reaching base camp. Finally, the trek culminates with an awe-inspiring moment as trekkers stand at the base camp of the world's highest peak, surrounded by breathtaking ice formations and towering mountains. Throughout the trek, trekkers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Sherpa culture and hospitality, as they encounter traditional teahouses and monasteries along the way. The friendly locals and their rich cultural traditions add an extra dimension to this incredible journey.

Conclusion and Summary

The Gokyo via Ebc Trek is a physically demanding adventure that requires a good level of fitness and acclimatization. It is recommended to undertake proper preparations and be aware of the potential altitude-related challenges. However, with proper planning and guidance from experienced guides, this trek is an extraordinary opportunity to witness the grandeur of the Everest region, create lifelong memories, and experience the indomitable spirit of the Himalayas.

Trip Highlights


  • Embark on a thrilling 40 minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, experiencing one of the world’s most scenic airport landings.
  • World’s highest altitude airport at Syangboche
  • Khumjung Monastery is said to be famous for Yeti Scalp.
  • Impressive view of Khumbu Ice Fall
  • Amazing views from Gokyo Ri
  • Hidden Gokyo valley, Gokyo Lake, and Cho La Pass (5,420m)
  • Prayer wheels, colorful flags, Mani stones, high suspension bridges
  • Everest Base Camp (5,364m)
  • Edmund Hillary funded schools and hospital
  • Namche Bazaar – the Sherpa Capital
  • World-famous monasteries and museums
  • One of the world’s highest hotels – Everest View Hotel
  • Marvel at breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam from the Everest View Hotel.
  • Trek through picturesque villages like Phakding, nestled amidst lush greenery and flowing rivers.
  • Traverse suspension bridges over the roaring Dudh Koshi River, adding an adventurous touch to the journey.
  • Explore the vibrant Sherpa culture in Namche Bazaar, the bustling heart of the Khumbu region.
  • Wonderful opportunity to tour Buddhist temples and get knowledge of the Sherpa culture and customs that are unique to the area
  • Ascend Kala Patthar for a sunrise spectacle, with Everest’s summit bathed in golden hues.
  • Visit the ancient Tengboche Monastery, perched atop a hill and offering spiritual solace amidst stunning vistas.
  • Trek alongside rhododendron forests and across the Imja River, immersing yourself in the Himalayan landscape.
  • Sagarmatha National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
  • The wide range of flora and fauna
  • Vegetations Like firHimalayan birch and rhododendronJuniper and rhododendron prevail at elevations of 4,000–5,000 m (13,000–16,000 ft). Mosses and lichens grow above 5,000 m (16,000 ft) are found in Sagarmatha National Park
  • Wildlife like Himalayan tharHimalayan serow and musk deer. The snow leopard inhabits elevations above 3,500 m (11,500 ft), and the Indian leopard roams forests in lower elevations and Birds Like Impeyan pheasantbearded vulturesnowcock and alpine chough found in Sagarmatha National Park
  • The Spectacular Close up views of Everest, Nuptse and Changtse and glimpses of the northern flank and summit of Lhotse plus Astounding Close up Sunrise Views from Kala Patthar Viewpoints.
  • Astounding Panoramic Views of Mount Everest (8,848m), Cho Oyu (8,188m), Lhotse (8,516m), Nuptse (7,861m), Ama Dablam (6,812m), and Makalu (8,485m), Pumori (7,161m), Nuptse (7,861m), Ngozumpa glacier and five tranquil glacier lakes named together as Gokyo lakes from Gokyo Ri (5,357m / 17,575ft) Viewpoints.
  • Incredible views of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest (8,848m), Cho Oyu (8,188m), Lhotse (8,516m), Nuptse (7,861m), Ama Dablam (6,812m), and Makalu (8,485m).
  • Soak in the camaraderie of fellow trekkers, sharing tales of adventure around cozy teahouse fires.
  • Depart with cherished memories of an unforgettable journey through the legendary Everest region, leaving a piece of your heart in the Himalayas.

Itinerary


Day1: Flight from Kathmandu/Manthali to Lukla (2,850m / 9,350ft). Trek to Phakding ( 2650m / 8562ft)

Trek Distance 6.2km / 3.8miles

Flight Hours 40/20 minutes

Highest Altitude 2,850m / 9,350ft

Trek Duration 3 hours

Your journey to Everest Base Camp starts with a scenic flight to Lukla. During the busy trekking months (March, April, May, September, October, and November), flights from Kathmandu Airport to Lukla may get redirected to Manthali Airport. To catch the early morning Lukla flight, we’ll pick you up at your hotel around 12:30 am and take you on a 5-hour drive to Manthali. The subsequent 20-minute flight from Manthali will take you to Lukla.

You can book a direct helicopter from Kathmandu to Lukla to skip the Kathmandu-Manthali-Lukla route. The cost is approximately 550 USD per person when shared among five passengers.

For December, January, February, June, July, or August, the flight path from Kathmandu to Lukla is direct. Following breakfast, we’ll arrange your transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) for a swift 40-minute flight to Tenzing Hillary Airport in Lukla.

After landing at the Tenzing Hillary Airport, the trek starts. Since this is your first day, the hike will be short and help you to acclimatize. The path will take you through Chaurikharka Village, down to Dudhkoshi, and then to Phakding, the destination for the day. You can use the extra time to explore places in Phakding, such as the Rimishung Monastery.

  • Overnight stay at Khumbu Travel Lodge, room with attached bathroom
  • Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)

Day2: Trek from Phakding (2,650m /8,562ft) to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,285ft)

Trek Distance 7.4km / 4.6miles

Highest Altitude 3,440m / 11,285ft

Trek Duration 6 hours

We’ll continue moving north along the banks of Dudh Koshi River that opens up majestic views of snow-capped peaks all around. There are several suspension bridges to cross- including the famous – Hillary Suspension Bridge.

As you move ahead, you will reach Sagarmatha National Park, where we will register our permits and climb up through the dense forest from where we can see the first views of Mt. Everest. However, we will continue trekking until we reach Namche Bazaar.

  • Overnight stay at Sakura Guest House, room with attached bathroom
  • Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)

Day3: Rest day and acclimatization at Namche Bazaar

This will be our first day entirely allocated for acclimatization and packed with possibilities for various activities. Namche Bazaar hosts numerous cafes, restaurants, and hotels connected with wifi, souvenirs, and gear shops.

There are several other options – such as visiting Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center, traditional Sherpa settlements, Hillary School, yak farms, and Buddhist monasteries.

  • Overnight stay at Sakura Guest House, room with attached bathroom
  • Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)

Day4: Trek from Namche (3,440m / 11,285ft) to Dole (4,200m / 13,270ft)

Trek Distance 11km / 6.8miles

Highest Altitude 4,200m / 13,270ft

Trek Duration 5 hours

After acclimatization at Namche Bazaar, we will trek towards Dole. This is where our path separates from the classic Everest Base Camp hike. Classic EBC trek continues towards Tengboche instead of Dole.

The path to Dole is rocky and has many ups and downs. After about two hours of trek, we will reach Mong La Pass(3957m / 12982ft).

From here, we can get amazing views of Mt. Ama Dablam (6,812m / 22,349ft) and Mt. Khumbila (5,761m / 18,901ft). As we move forward, our trail takes us downhill through forests full of pine and rhododendron and then at Phortse Tenga, a riverside village. However, we will move ahead until we reach our destination for the day at Dole.

  • Overnight stay at Alpine Cottage Lodge
  • Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)

Day5: Trek from Dole (4,200m / 13,270ft) to Machhermo (4,470m / 14,450ft)

Trek Distance 7km / 4.3miles

Highest Altitude 4,470m / 14,450ft

Trek Duration 5-6 hrs

We leave Dole and climb higher, which takes us to beautiful meadows that serve as yak pastures, and alongside, you will see several shrines and prayer flags. During the summer months, these pastures are green, and you can see yaks grazing. But, during winter, the area is barren, and even the locals move down to avoid harsh winter.

As you look ahead, you can see the stunning Mt. Cho Oyu, the fifth tallest mountain in the world. The trail then leads us to Lapahrma village and then Luja before finally reaching our destination Machhermo

  • Overnight stay at Yeti Home
  • Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)

Day6: Trek from Machhermo (4,470m / 14,450ft) to Gokyo (4,790m / 15,584ft)

Trek Distance 5.7km / 3.5miles

Highest Altitude 4,790m / 15,584ft

Trek Duration 4 hrs

Today will be the Gokyo Lakes sightseeing day. After an hour trek, we will be crossing the elevated grazing lands and reach Phanga. In this region, you can see the memorials of people who lost their lives during the landslides.

As our journey elevates, the paths become narrower, and you will reach the outlet of the first Gokyo Lake, which also happens to be the smallest among the five major Gokyo lakes. The Gokyo village itself lies a short walk ahead from the third Gokyo lake, and it is one of the highest settlements in Nepal. In the middle of the Gokyo Valley, you will be able to see an uphill, which is the famous Gokyo Ri viewpoint. 

  • Overnight stay at Thanka inn
  • Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)

Day7: Rest day to acclimatize at Gokyo. Gokyo Ri viewpoint (5,400m / 17,814ft )

Trek Distance 1.5km / 0.9miles

Highest Altitude 5,400m / 17,814ft

Trek Duration 1 & ½ hrs

The seventh day is scheduled for acclimatization day at Gokyo, and this day, we will explore the Gokyo valley. However, we’ll not miss stepping at the famous viewpoint of Gokyo RI (5,430m/17,519ft).  From here, you can see four among the six highest mountains of the world – Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,485m), and Cho Oyu (8,188m). We will also be visiting other Gokyo lakes. 

  • Overnight stay at Thanka Inn
  • Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)

Day8: Trek from Gokyo (4,790m / 15,584ft) to Thangnak (4,700m / 15,400ft)

Trek Distance 3.7 km / 2.3miles

Highest Altitude 4,790m / 15,584ft

Trek Duration 5 hours

After acclimatizing for a day at Gokyo village, we continue our trek, and the destination for this day is Thangnak. On our way, we will be passing Ngozumpa Glacier. The path itself is full of ups and downs, but it is a shorter trek and you will not be gaining any height. 

Thangnak village sits by the side of Ngozumpa Glacier in a serene setting and lies in a perfect place helping trekkers to reach Cho-La high pass (5,330m).

  • Overnight stay at Hotel Khumbila
  • Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)

Day9: Trek from Thangnak (4,700m / 15,400ft) to Dzongla (4,855m / 15,930ft) via Cho La Pass (5420m / 17,783ft)

Trek Distance 16km / 9.9miles

Highest Altitude 5420m / 17,783ft

Trek Duration 6-7 hrs

After spending the night at Thangnak, we will be hiking over the rocky trails and the glacial moraines to the top of the Cho La Pass in the very early morning. After a couple of hours of trek, we will step on the top of Cho La Pass, which will reward us with the magnificent views of Cho La Lake and Mt. Cholatse (6,440m).

As we head downhill, the trail becomes icy and slippery. The scenes you get to enjoy from this trek are very pleasant. We will reach our destination for that day – Dzongla – after trekking for about seven hours. It is quite a long trek. 

  • Overnight stay at Maison Sherpa Hotel
  • Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)

Day10: Trek from Dzongla (4,855m / 15,930ft) to Lobuche (4,910m / 16,175ft)

Trek Distance 8.36km / 5.2miles

Highest Altitude 4,910m / 16,175ft

Trek Duration 4 hrs

On our tenth day, we will leave Dzongla, following the moraine, and descend along with Chola Lake. Then we follow the Khumbu Glacier. On our way, we can see the memorial statues of the climbers, who passed away in this region.

Unlike the previous day, the hike to Lobuche should be pleasurable, and before reaching Lobuche, we will be following Imja Khola. And sure enough, we will reach our destination for that day – Lobuche – after trekking for about four hours. By reaching Lobuche, we have rejoined the classic Everest Base Camp trek trail.

  • Overnight stay at Mother Earth House
  • Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)

Day11: Trek from Lobuche (4,930m / 16,175ft) to Everest Base Camp (5,364m / 17,598ft) and back to Gorak Shep (5,185m / 17,010ft)

 

Itinerary Facts
Trek Distance 15km / 9.32miles
Highest Altitude 5,364m / 17,598ft)
Trek Duration 6-8 hours

This will be a remarkable day for you, as this day you will be reaching the Everest Base Camp itself. However, the journey will start at Lobuche and elevate significantly as we approach Gorak Shep. Once we reach Gorak Shep, we will leave our belongings there and head up to the Everest Base Camp. 

Once you reach Everest Base Camp (EBC), you will feel a sense of achievement – like the fruition of your efforts. Reaching EBC requires consistent physical effort and lots of determination, so in a way, the journey to EBC will transform you into a better person. The views from EBC are incredible, and you will get a chance to enjoy the views of Khumbu Glacier. We suggest you to click as many pictures as you can as they will serve you as a memento for the rest of your life 

After enjoying the views from EBC, we will trek down to Gorak Shep and spend our night there but rest assured that another remarkable day will still be awaiting you.

  • Overnight stay at Buddha Lodge
  • Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)

Day12: Hike to Kala Patthar (5,555m / 18,208ft) viewpoint, trek to Gorak Shep and then to Pheriche (4,250m / 13,945ft)

Trek Distance 9.6km / 6 miles)

Highest Altitude 5,555m / 18,208ft

Trek Duration 5 hours

We will wake up at Gorak Shep early in the morning and hike to Kala Patthar to catch the dawn breaking on the Everest Mountain. The sights you will be witnessing will be incomparable to anything that you might have ever seen.

After spending a while at the Kala Patthar viewpoint we will descend to Gorak Shep for breakfast and then rest for some time. Then we will head to Pheriche – the destination for the day. 

  • Overnight stay at Hotel Himalaya
  • Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)

Day13: Trek from Pheriche(4,250m / 13,945ft) to Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,285ft)

Trek Distance 14.3km / 8.8miles

Highest Altitude 4,250m / 13,945ft

Trek Duration 6-7 hrs

This day we wake up at Pheriche and then head to Namche Bazaar. The trail will be leading us through forests where we might spot wildlife like pheasants, musk deer, mountain goats, etc.

On the way, you will see numerous prayer flags and chortens, and this day provides you with the last chance to see Mt. Everest. As we trek further, we will reach Namche Bazaar, where we will be spending our night. 

  • Overnight stay at Sakura Guest House, room with attached bathroom
  • Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)

Day14: Trek from Namche Bazaar (3,440m / 11,285ft) to Lukla (2,850m / 9,350ft)

Trek Distance 13.5km / 8.3miles

Highest Altitude 3,440m / 11,285ft

Trek Duration 6-7 hrs

Just like, all good things must come to an end. This is your last day on the trekking trails. After breakfast, we will hike down a steep trail, cross the Hillary Suspension Bridge, and pass through several local villages. Most of our trek will take place in Dudh Koshi River Valley and its surroundings.

Upon reaching Lukla, we will freshen up at our hotel and relax. It will most probably be your last night in the Khumbu region. You have succeeded against several odds. It is a moment worth celebrating.

  • Overnight stay at Comfort Inn, room with attached bathroom
  • Included standard meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)

Day15: Fly back to Kathmandu/Manthali from Lukla (2,850m / 9,350ft)

Highest Altitude 40/20 minutes

If everything goes according to the schedule, you will fly back to Kathmandu in the early morning. The flight route from Lukla depends on the trekking season. If your trek is in March, April, May, September, October, or November, you will most probably fly to Manthali, and we will drive you to Kathmandu from Manthali. In other months (December, January, February, June, July, and August), you will fly from Lukla to Kathmandu directly.

If you want to avoid the Lukla-Manthali-Kathmandu route you can book a helicopter. It will cost about 550 USD (extra) per person, provided five people split the cost.

We hope your journey back to Kathmandu will indeed be a relaxing one. The chances are you will find yourself reflecting on your journey to Everest Base Camp and feel a bit excited as you will soon be able to meet your loved ones back home. Discovery World Trekking will arrange a farewell dinner for you in Kathmandu later in the day.

  • Included standard meal (Breakfast)

Day 16: Final departure

We will arrange the departure transportation service for you. We will bid the final goodbye and escort you to the airport.
Note: If you have days left for departure from Nepal and want to explore Nepal more, we have different trekking and tour packages along with adventure activities. You can contact us for further arrangements.

Price Includes


  • Domestic flights (Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu) tickets and departure taxes
  • Total 14 nights (Five nights – Lukla, Phakding and Namche (3 Nights), rooms with a private attached bathroom. Nine nights – standard room at Dole, Machhermo, Gokyo (2 Nights), Thangnak, Dzongla, Lobuche, Gorakshep, Pheriche
  • All standard meals (15 lunches, 14 dinners, and 15 breakfasts) during the trek
  • Experienced government-licensed English speaking Friendship World trek leader (12 or above trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and porter to help trekkers luggage (1 porter for 2 trekkers, 9 kg weight limit per trekker)
  • Guides and porters costs, their meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, flight, and necessary equipment
  • Water purification tablets for safe drinking water
  • Sagarmatha National Park entry permit fee
  • Khumbu Pashang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees.
  • Snacks (cookies) and seasonal fresh fruits every day
  • All government, local taxes, and official expenses
  • Assistance in arranging rescue operations in case of health emergencies (funded by travel insurance)
  • 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.
  • Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
  • Souvenir – company’s T-shirt & cap
  • Friendship World Trek certificate of appreciation after the successful trek
  • Welcome and Farewell dinner after arrival and before Departure at Restaurant or at Home

Price Excludes


  • International flight airfare
  • On-arrival visa fees at Tribhuvan International Airport- (15 days – $25-30, 30 days- $40-50 and 90 days- $100-110)
  • Excess baggage charges on the trip (Limit is 9kg per Person)
  • All accommodations and meals in Kathmandu, before and after the journey
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, early return from trekking.
  • Personal expenses (shopping, snacks, boiled/bottled water, hot (tea, coffee) and cold drinks, hot shower, alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery re-charge fee), extra porters, etc
  • Personal clothing and gear
  • Travel insurance which has to cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation compulsory
  • Tips for guide and porters
  • Additional costs due to delays beyond our control. For example, landslides, weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to safety concerns, illness, change of government policies, strikes, etc.
  • All the costs and expenses which are not listed in – “What is included in the Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes trek package?” above
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