Gokyo Lake with Everest Base Camp (No Chola Pass)
Gokyo Lake with Everest Base Camp (No Chola Pass)
Trip Overview
Gokyo Lakes With Everest Base Camp (No Chola Pass) Highlights
- Visit to the stunning turquoise Gokyo Lake with Everest Base Camp.
- Panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu from Gokyo Ri (5,357m).
- Traversing the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420m).
- Exploration of Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and Kala Patthar (5,545m) for iconic Everest views.
- Immersion in Sherpa culture and traditions in picturesque villages.
- Trekking through diverse landscapes: lush valleys, glacial moraines, and alpine meadows.
The Gokyo Lake with Everest Base Camp is a remarkable journey that combines the serene beauty of the Gokyo Valley with the adventure of visiting Everest Base Camp.
Gokyo Lake with Everest Base Camp trek offers diverse landscapes, breathtaking views of towering peaks, and the serene turquoise Gokyo valley.
Best Season for Gokyo Lake with Everest Base Camp
The best time for this trek is in the spring (March to May) and the autumn (September to November). These times of year have clear skies, stable weather, and great views of the beautiful Himalayas. Rhododendrons bloom in the spring, and the air is crisp and the landscapes are bright in the fall.
Winter can be very cold, and the monsoon (June–August) brings heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and obstructed mountain views.
What Makes Gokyo Lake with Everest Base Camp Special?
- This trek combines the serene beauty of Gokyo Valley with the adventure of reaching Everest Base Camp (EBC).
- Highlights include trekking through remote Sherpa villages, exploring the turquoise Gokyo Lakes,
- Climbing Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) for panoramic Himalayan views, visiting EBC (5,364 m), and trekking to Kala Patthar (5,545 m) for iconic Everest vistas.
- The combination of glacial landscapes, alpine meadows, and cultural immersion makes this trip to the Everest area one of a kind.
How Difficult is Gokyo Lake with Everest Base Camp?
Gokyo Lake with Everest Base Camp is moderate in difficulty. It includes long days of hiking at high altitudes, some steep climbs, and trails through glacier moraine. Because of the high altitude, it’s important to acclimatize properly, and trekkers should be in good shape. The path is easy to follow, but it’s hard enough to give you a real Himalayan experience without having to do any technical climbing.
Permits Required
Trekking in this region requires:
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- Khumbu Gaupalika Permit
- Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card
Skyline Treks handles all permits, making sure you get a smooth and comfortable start.
Safety and Precautions
Safety things you need to take care about:
- Get used to the altitude slowly to avoid getting sick.
- Use trekking poles when the trail is steep and uneven.
- Follow your guide’s directions for getting around on glaciers and moraines.
- Wear layers of clothing so you can deal with sudden changes in the weather.
- Drink plenty of water and don’t push yourself too hard.
- Make sure that your travel insurance covers high-altitude hiking and being flown out by helicopter.
Training and Preparation
To get the most out of this hike:
- Running, biking, or hiking can help you build up your cardiovascular endurance.
- Make your legs and core stronger so you can climb hills and walk on uneven ground.
- Take practice hikes with a full backpack.
- Get used to trekking at high altitudes to get your body ready for elevations of 5,000 feet or more.
Mountain Views
The trek gives you stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and other nearby peaks. The sunrise at Gokyo Ri and the sunset at Kala Patthar are two of the most beautiful times of day. Along the way, hikers see glacial rivers, moraine ridges, alpine meadows, and clear blue lakes.
Altitude Sickness and Prevention
Maximum elevations reach 5,545 m at Kala Patthar. Prevention tips:
- Ascend gradually and take acclimatization days.
- Eat foods that give you energy and drink a lot of fluids.
- Headache, nausea, dizziness, and tiredness are all early signs.
- If your symptoms get worse, go down right away.
- Consider consulting a doctor about Diamox for high-altitude protection.
What to Expect During Gokyo Lake with Everest Base Camp
Trekkers get to see both the beauty of nature and the culture of the Sherpas. During the day, you will go on moderate to long treks with stops to enjoy the scenery, visit monasteries, and explore local villages. Most places to stay are tea houses and lodges, which have basic amenities and meals.
The conditions for trekking can be anything from forested trails to high alpine terrain, moraine ridges, and glacial paths. Sunrise and sunset vistas, combined with cultural encounters, provide a comprehensive Everest region experience.
Why Choose Skyline Treks for Gokyo Lake with Everest Base Camp
Skyline Treks takes care of all the permits, guides, and porters you need. Their expertise in logistics, accommodation, and cultural insights allows trekkers to focus entirely on the adventure. With safety measures, acclimatization guidance, and high-altitude trekking experience, Skyline Treks enhances the overall quality of the trek.
Things You Should Know
- The tea house rooms are simple, and there may not be hot showers or Wi-Fi.
- You need cash; ATMs are only in big villages like Namche Bazaar.
- The weather can change quickly, so be ready for cold nights and maybe even snow.
- Trekking includes trails through glacier moraines, so be sure to follow the guides closely.
- Early mornings are best for taking pictures and seeing the sunrise.
Is Gokyo Lake with Everest Base Camp for Me?
This trek is good for experienced hikers who are okay with moderate altitudes and long days of hiking. If you enjoy mountain scenery, cultural encounters, and a mix of remote wilderness with Everest highlights, this trek is perfect. Beginners who have never hiked at high altitudes before may find the heights and daily distances hard.
Meals & Accommodation
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided at tea houses or lodges.
Accommodation: Lodges, tea houses, and resorts along the route; basic but sufficient facilities, with optional hot showers where available.
Why Choose Gokyo Lake with Everest Base Camp
Gokyo Lake with Everest Base Camp combines the best of Gokyo Valley and Everest Base Camp in a 15-day journey, offering a balance of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and iconic Himalayan peaks. It has less crowded trails than the usual EBC route and offers several summit viewpoints and adventure highlights.
Packing List, Gears, and Equipments
Here are the essentials you should bring:
- Footwear: Trekking boots, extra socks
- Clothing: Base layers, fleece, insulated jacket, waterproof jacket, gloves, hat
- Accessories: Sunglasses, sunscreen, trekking poles
- Gear: Daypack, water bottles, headlamp, sleeping bag (if required at higher lodges)
- Health/Safety: First aid kit, medications for altitude sickness, personal hygiene items
- Documents: Passport, permits, travel insurance, cash
- Optional: Camera, power bank, trekking gaiters
Itinerary
Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding
Take an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas from the air, including snow-capped peaks and deep valleys. When you get to Lukla, meet the guide and crew. Then, start a slow walk to Phakding (2,650 m). The path goes along the Dudh Koshi River and through small villages, monasteries, and terraced fields.
This first day is a short and easy hike that lets your body get used to the high altitude while you enjoy the beautiful mountain views. When we get there, check into a local tea house lodge, eat a warm meal, and relax to get ready for the next few days.
Phakding to Namche Bazaar
Today, the trek becomes slightly more challenging as we gradually ascend to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), the vibrant Sherpa hub of the Khumbu region. The path goes along the Dudh Koshi River, going through small villages like Monjo and Jorsale and crossing suspension bridges.
The view includes snow-capped peaks like Thamserku and Kwangde Ri, as well as lush forests of pine and rhododendron. When we get to Namche, you can see Sherpa culture by going to the busy village market, going to local cafes, or walking through the narrow streets. This day helps your body get used to being at a higher altitude while giving you beautiful views of the mountains.
Namche Bazar and Everest View Hotel and back to Namche
Today is an acclimatization and exploration day. After having a delicious breakfast, walk a short distance to the Everest View Hotel, which is one of the highest hotels in the world at 3,880 m altitude. You can see all of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam from here. This easy hike lets your body get used to higher altitudes while giving you plenty of time to take pictures and see the sights.
Along the way, pass through Sherpa villages, mani walls, and prayer flags, experiencing the rich local culture. After a day of hiking and exploring, go back to Namche Bazaar to relax, eat dinner, and sleep. This day of acclimatization is very important for getting your body ready for the higher altitudes to come.
Namche to Dole
Today, we leave the bustling Namche Bazaar and ascend into the higher Khumbu region. The hike to Dole (4,030 m) takes us through beautiful pine and rhododendron forests and past chortens and prayer flags that line the trail. We’ll cross small streams and see tall peaks like Thamserku, Ama Dablam, and Kangtega from time to time. The trail goes up slowly, which helps your body get used to the change.
When we get to Dole, check into the lodge, enjoy the beautiful mountain views, and get some sleep. This part is moderately hard because it goes up steadily, but it gives you peaceful mountain views and fewer people on the trail.
Dole to Machhermo
Today, the trail ascends steadily from Dole into the high alpine region, bringing you to Machhermo (4,470 m). The trek goes through areas with little vegetation, rocky ground, and glacial moraines. Along the way, you can see stunning views of Cho La, Thamserku, and Kusum Kanguru. To help you get used to the thinner air, the pace is slower.
Machhermo is a small village with lodges where people who are trekking can rest and eat hot meals. This part is very important for getting used to the higher altitudes you’ll be at in the next few days, like when you go to the Gokyo Lakes. The beautiful mountains and peaceful surroundings make this a memorable day of hiking at a high altitude.
Machhermo to Gokyo Lake
Today’s trek takes you from Machhermo to the stunning Gokyo Lake, located at 4,750 m in the heart of the Khumbu region. The trail goes along the Ngozumpa Glacier, which is the biggest glacier in Nepal. Along the way, you’ll see amazing views of glacial moraines and the high peaks around them. We’ll pass through small alpine settlements and prayer-strewn trails, with breathtaking views of Cho Oyu, Everest, and Makalu in the distance.
When we get to Gokyo Lake, we can relax and take pictures of the calm beautiful turquoise waters that reflect the tall mountains. We can stay in a local tea house, where you can relax and get ready for the Gokyo Ri hike the next day.
Hike to Gokyo RI
Today is a highlight of the trek with a climb to Gokyo Ri, offering one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the Everest region. The trail goes up steeply from Gokyo Village to the top, which is 5,357 m high. From there, you can see stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Ngozumpa Glacier.
The climb is moderately challenging due to the steep slope and high altitude, but the views from the top are just amazing. You can see all around you from the top. We go back down to Gokyo Village for a well-deserved rest after enjoying the summit. This day is also very important for getting used to the conditions before the trek to Everest Base Camp.
Trek back to Phorste village
After soaking in the beauty of Gokyo Lake and the surrounding peaks, today we descend from Gokyo Village to Phorste Village (4,200 m). The trail goes down the glacier moraines in a gentle way, giving you stunning views of the Ngozumpa Glacier and the Himalayan ridges around it. We will pass through high-altitude landscapes with prayer flags, chortens, and small alpine settlements along the way. The trek is moderately paced to allow for continued acclimatization.
When we get to Phorste, check into a local lodge and enjoy a warm meal while taking in the peaceful mountain views. This day gets your body ready for the trip to Everest Base Camp.
Trek to Pheriche
Today, we trek from Phorste Village to Pheriche (4,200 m), a small settlement nestled in the Khumbu region. The trail goes through empty high-altitude areas, glacial streams, and yak grazing areas. Along the way, you can see Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Nuptse from all sides. The terrain is moderately difficult, with gentle climbs and rocky paths. This is another chance to get used to the altitude.
When we get there, check into a local lodge, have a big meal, and relax while we take in the peaceful alpine scenery. There is also a small medical clinic in Pheriche that is helpful for people who are worried about being at a high altitude.
Trek to Lobuche
Today, the trek takes you from Pheriche to Lobuche (4,910 m), moving deeper into the high Himalayas. The path slowly rises up the Khumjung Valley, giving us amazing views of Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and the Khumbu Glacier. We will walk past memorials for climbers, prayer flags, and rough alpine land. We need to go at a slow and steady pace to help the body get used to the higher altitude.
When we get to Lobuche, check into a local lodge, eat a warm meal, and go to bed for the night. This day is important for getting used to the altitude before the push to Everest Base Camp, and the stunning mountain views make the hard trek worth it.
Trek to Everest Base Camp (EBC) then back to Gorakshep
Today is the highlight of the trek, as we journey from Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (EBC, 5,364 m). The trail goes along the glacial moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, giving you a close-up look at the famous Khumbu Icefall, as well as tall peaks and icefalls. When we get to Everest Base Camp, take time to soak in the breathtaking scenery, capture photos, and experience the legendary atmosphere of the world’s highest mountain base.
After this unforgettable trip, go down to Gorakshep (5,170 m) and stay the night at a local lodge. The day is long and challenging, but the views of Everest, Nuptse, and Lhotse make every step worthwhile.
Hiking to Kalapattar - Gorekshep – Dingbuche
Today begins with a pre-dawn hike to Kala Patthar, the iconic viewpoint offering unparalleled panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Pumori. The path is steep and we have to keep a steady pace, but the view of the Himalayas at sunrise makes it all worth it. After spending some time at the top taking pictures and taking in the views, go back down to Gorakshep for a short break and lunch.
From there, keep hiking down to Dingboche, which is 4,350 m high. The descent lets your body rest while still giving you great views of the mountains, alpine meadows, and glacial streams around you.
Trek to Namche Bazaar
Today, you begin the descent from Dingboche to Namche Bazaar, retracing part of the Everest region trail. The hike goes through alpine meadows, small Sherpa villages, and pine forests at a slower pace. Along the way, you can see Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and the other Khumbu peaks in all their glory.
This descent gives the body time to recover from the high-altitude days and lets you experience Sherpa culture and village life one last time. When we get to Namche Bazaar, check into a lodge, explore the busy market, and take a well-deserved break.
Trek to Lukla
Today, you complete the final trek segment back to Lukla, descending through the forests of pine and rhododendron, crossing suspension bridges, and passing through small Sherpa villages along the Dudh Koshi River. The path goes mostly downhill, so we can take your time and enjoy the last views of the tall Himalayan peaks.
Upon arrival in Lukla, settle into a lodge, rest, and reflect on the remarkable journey through the Khumbu region, preparing for the flight back to Kathmandu the following day.
Fly back to Kathmandu
On the final day of your trek, take a morning flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, enjoying spectacular aerial views of the Himalayan peaks and deep river valleys one last time. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to the hotel for rest and relaxation. This is the perfect opportunity to reflect on the incredible journey, share memories with your trekking team, and enjoy the comforts of the city after the high-altitude adventure. Your Gokyo Lakes with Everest Base Camp trek concludes today, leaving you with unforgettable views, cultural experiences, and a sense of accomplishment.
We hope you enjoyed every minute of this amazing but difficult trip and made countless fond memories that will last with you for a lifetime. And we also hope to see you again for your next adventure in Nepal with us.
Include/Exclude
What's Included
- Domestic airfare from Kathmandu-Lukla
- Sagarmatha National Park entry permits fee.
- Khumbu Gaupalika entry permit fee
- Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) trekking permit fee.
- Accommodation and 3 meals a day while on the Everest Base Camp trek in Lodge (Tea House)
- Fully escorted Gokyo Lakes With Everest Base Camp with english speaking license holder local Sherpa Everest base camp trekking guide & each 2 persons 1 trekking Porter provided.
- All program according to Everest Base Camp Trekking itineraries on full board.
- Wages, equipment, insurance and other facilities to staffs.
- All land transfer as per above 14 days Everest Base Camp trekking itinerary by our private vehicle.
What's Not Included
- Nepal entry visa fee US$ 40 (duration 30 days from date of issue) you may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport Kathmandu. (it will be ready within few minutes) You will require each 2 passport size photos.
- Kathmandu Hotel room and all accommodations such as Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (B, L, D)
- Travel insurance and medical evacuation in case of emergency
- Personal Spending money and all kind of drinks (Alcoholic, hot and cold drinks) bar bill, Int’l Telephone bill, laundry, Hot shower etc. Tips for trekking guide, porter and driver. (Tipping is expected).
Note: In case of emergency for helicopter rescue during the trip and flight cancellation due to bad weather to Lukla and back, Helicopter will be arranged by our company (Skyline Treks & Expedition (P) Ltd.) The rescue charges, medical evacuation and extra charge for Helicopter to Lukla and back (In case of bad weather) can be paid by the clients themselves.
Fixed Departure
Reviews
Nature and Culture in the High HimalayaBeyond mountain peaks, this route immersed me in Sherpa villages, monasteries and glacial valleys. With Skyline Treks we trekked from Lukla to Gokyo, rested and enjoyed lakeside serenity, then pressed on to EBC with incredible support. The highlight? Watching sunrise over Everest with the lakes’ reflections still fresh in mind. For a serious trekker this path is gold.
Nature and Culture in the High HimalayaBeyond mountain peaks, this route immersed me in Sherpa villages, monasteries and glacial valleys. With Skyline Treks we trekked from Lukla to Gokyo, rested and enjoyed lakeside serenity, then pressed on to EBC with incredible support. The highlight? Watching sunrise over Everest with the lakes’ reflections still fresh in mind. For a serious trekker this path is gold.
High Altitude, Deep SatisfactionThis trek stretched over 14-15 days with gains over 5,000 m, but every step was worth it. Via Gokyo we got unique perspectives of Everest and the longest Himalayan glacier. Skyline Treks’ team was experienced—ropes, acclimatization days, altimeter checks—they left nothing to chance. Standing on Kala Patthar with the world’s highest peak in front of me is something I’ll never forget.
High Altitude, Deep SatisfactionThis trek stretched over 14-15 days with gains over 5,000 m, but every step was worth it. Via Gokyo we got unique perspectives of Everest and the longest Himalayan glacier. Skyline Treks’ team was experienced—ropes, acclimatization days, altimeter checks—they left nothing to chance. Standing on Kala Patthar with the world’s highest peak in front of me is something I’ll never forget.
Dream Route to Everest Through the LakesCombining Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp was the adventure of a lifetime. With Skyline Treks, the journey from Lukla through the tranquil Gokyo Valley, up to Gokyo Ri at sunrise, and then on to EBC and Kala Patthar felt seamless and epic. The contrast of turquoise lakes and snow-clad Himalayas blew me away. Our guide paced the high-altitude days well, the lodges were comfortable for the region, and despite the remote terrain I always felt in good hands.
Dream Route to Everest Through the LakesCombining Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp was the adventure of a lifetime. With Skyline Treks, the journey from Lukla through the tranquil Gokyo Valley, up to Gokyo Ri at sunrise, and then on to EBC and Kala Patthar felt seamless and epic. The contrast of turquoise lakes and snow-clad Himalayas blew me away. Our guide paced the high-altitude days well, the lodges were comfortable for the region, and despite the remote terrain I always felt in good hands.
Gokyo Lake With Everest Base Camp
This trek offered the best of both worlds! The Gokyo Lakes were mesmerizing, and the view from Gokyo Ri was beyond words. Combining it with Everest Base Camp made this a once-in-a-lifetime journey
Gokyo Lake With Everest Base Camp
This trek offered the best of both worlds! The Gokyo Lakes were mesmerizing, and the view from Gokyo Ri was beyond words. Combining it with Everest Base Camp made this a once-in-a-lifetime journey
Gokyo Lake With Everest Base Camp
The turquoise lakes of Gokyo were absolutely stunning, and the challenging trails made reaching Everest Base Camp even more rewarding. The trek was well-organized, and our guide was excellent.
Gokyo Lake With Everest Base Camp
The turquoise lakes of Gokyo were absolutely stunning, and the challenging trails made reaching Everest Base Camp even more rewarding. The trek was well-organized, and our guide was excellent.
Gokyo Lake With Everest Base Camp
The Gokyo Valley was my favorite part of the trek. Crossing the Cho La Pass was tough but worth every effort for the incredible views. Reaching Everest Base Camp afterward felt like the perfect finale
Gokyo Lake With Everest Base Camp
The Gokyo Valley was my favorite part of the trek. Crossing the Cho La Pass was tough but worth every effort for the incredible views. Reaching Everest Base Camp afterward felt like the perfect finale
Gokyo Lake With Everest Base Camp
What an adventure! The diversity of landscapes, from the serene Gokyo Lakes to the rugged trails to Base Camp, was incredible. Our team took great care of us and made the trek smooth and enjoyable.
Gokyo Lake With Everest Base Camp
What an adventure! The diversity of landscapes, from the serene Gokyo Lakes to the rugged trails to Base Camp, was incredible. Our team took great care of us and made the trek smooth and enjoyable.
Gokyo Lake With Everest Base Camp
This trek was unforgettable. The peacefulness of Gokyo and the iconic Everest Base Camp experience made it an extraordinary journey. I’d recommend this to anyone looking for a unique adventure in Nepal!
Gokyo Lake With Everest Base Camp
This trek was unforgettable. The peacefulness of Gokyo and the iconic Everest Base Camp experience made it an extraordinary journey. I’d recommend this to anyone looking for a unique adventure in Nepal!
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