Everest Base Camp & Gokyo Lake Trek- 18 Days
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18 Days
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Group Size : 10
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Wifi Available
Description
This Adventure Trek provides a chance to see the grand scenery of the famous Khumbu area. This is a Challenging trek leading to Gokyo Lake and over the Cho La Pass (5330 m.) to the Khumbu valley above Lobuche Peak. The trail continues up to Kalapatthar and then back to Lukla via Tengboche and Namche Bazaar.
With eight of the world’s ten highest peaks, this trek is rich with spectacular mountains vistas. Trekking in the Everest area is a wonderful experience, not only for its proximity to the world’s highest mountain but also for its friendly Local people, picturesque villages, great variety of cultures and traditions, and colorful monasteries.
During this Challenging trek, you are continuously rewarded with the world-renowned Himalayan scenery, including four of the world’s eight highest peaks: Cho Oyu (8201m), Makalu (8463m), Lhotse (8516 m) and Everest (8848m). Breathtaking mountain vistas are complemented by visits to Sherpa villages, homes and monasteries offering you a glimpse at the wonderful and engaging sherpa way of life.
Challenging yet wonderful Everest Base Camp Trek leads to Gokyo Lake and over the Cho La Pass. The trail continues up to Kala Patthar and then back to Lukla via Tengboche and Namche Bazaar. Breathtaking mountain vistas are complemented by visits to Sherpa villages, homes and monasteries. Offers you an insight to a culturally vibrant Sherpa way of life.
- Assistance at the International airport by Step By Step Treks & Adventures representative on arrival and departure as per provided flight details.
- Accommodation on Deluxe Category in Kathmandu 03 Night as per Itinerary with open choices Breakfast
- Kathmandu Durbar Square, Monkey temple sightseeing with Owned Guide and Private tourist Transport
- Open choice Full board meals during the trek period(Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Tea or coffee)
- Neat & Clean Twine shared Private room during the trek period
- Round ways Domestic flight with Tax (Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu)
- All necessary ground Private tourist Vehicle service while Airport to airport
- An experienced English-speaking trek leader; well trained in wilderness First Aid, assistant trek leader (4 trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and Sherpa porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food and lodging
- Free Trek Map
- Group medical supplier (First aid kit will be Available)
- Travel & Rescue Arrangement for in case
- All necessary Paper works for Everest national park entry permits
- TIMS Card (Trekking information management system)
- Farewell Dinner
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (costs roughly USD 15 to 20 per person per day) (Except Farewell dinner).
- Kathmandu Sightseeing entry fee (Cost USD 5 to 15) per person on each spot.
- All kinds of drinks in the mountain (cold /soft/juice drinks and alcoholic)
- Personal equipment
- International airfare Departure / Arrival from Kathmandu.
- Travel and rescue insurance.
- Extra personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, laundry, shower, excess baggage charges)
- Tips for trekking staff and driver (Tipping is expected).
- Any others expenses which are not mentioned on ‘Price Includes’ section
Itinerary
A Step By Step Treks & Adventure representative will be waiting for you at the airport. He/she will then drop us off at our hotel where we can take a rest. In the evening we can enjoy a short visit around mix colorful touristic hub at Thamel and as well as introduce the Nepalese mix culture with food and drinks.
Today is our second big day for exploring the entire popular Kathmandu UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This spot shows you the most highlight of Nepal’s cultural and religious heritages. Our following days will be Kathmandu Durbar Square which showcases Kathmandu’s rich architectural prowess during the Malla dynasty (c1201–1769), and then Swayambhunath Stupa which tourists commonly refer to as the ‘Monkey Temple’ owing to a large number of the monkey population in the vicinity. Next is Pashupatinath Temple which is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus all over the world followed by the Buddhist shrine of Boudhanath which is one of the largest stupas in the world. Overnight in Kathmandu.
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 that has never been climbed. From Cheplung, we then gradually descend until we reach Phakding and spend the night.
Walking through a beautiful pine forest, we follow the trail north up the valley of Benkar. We then cross Dudh Koshi River and go on passing Chumoa to Monjo, the entrance to Everest National Park. Then after crossing a suspension bridge, we pass Jorsale village and walk alongside the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers. A steep ascent brings us to the prime heartland of Sherpa village - Namche Bazaar. At one hour’s distance to reaching Namche Bazaar, if the weather permits, we can view the sights of Mt. Everest and Mt. Lhotse. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
There are plenty of things to do around Namche Bazaar, and we can spend a day here acclimatizing. Namche Bazaar is the main center of the Khumbu region and has government offices, ATMs, Internet cafes, shops, restaurants, and a colorful market. Our guides can take us to explore the real charm of Namche Bazaar. Hiking to Sagarmatha National Park rewards trekkers with a sunrise view and the views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kongde and so on. If we are interested in a day hike, we trek to Khumjung village (12401 ft)-a beautiful village with a Sherpa settlement. In exploring Namche Bazar, we observe traditional Sherpa life, Khumjung Hillary School, and enjoy flora and fauna found at such altitude. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
The trails easy in the begging up to Kyangjuma & climb steeply out of the valley through rhododendron forests, which give way to fragrant stands of juniper and large conifers as the elevation increases. This trek is especially beautiful in spring when the rhododendrons are blooming. The trails pass many Kharkas, summer settlements used when Sherpas bring herds of yaks to graze in these high pastures. The route passes through the settlement s of Tongba (3950m) and Gyele (3960m) to Dole where there’re few hotels. The views of Khumbila and Tawache (6542m) are incredible throughout the day!! Overnight at guesthouse.
The trail climbs to Lambara at (4220m) and Luza at (4360m). The tails are steep in most places as it climbs through brush junipers. There’re Kharkas whenever there are a flat spot and the slightest hint of water. The trails continue to climb along the side of the valley, high above the river, crossing sandy spurs to Machhermo at (4410m). Here was in Machhermo in 1974 that Yeti killed three yaks and attacked a Sherpa woman. This is the most credit yeti incident ever reported. Overnight at guesthouse
We climb a ridge for an excellent view both down the valley to Kantega and up towards Cho-Oyu (8201m). Beyond the ridge, the valley widens as the trail passes through Pangka at (4390m) then descends to the riverbank before the beginning of climb on to the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpa Glacier. It’s a steep climb up the moraine, switch backing alongside the stream to the first small Lake at (4650m), where a family of green Brainy ducks resides. Overnight at guesthouse.
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.
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 the 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 sunrays 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.
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 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 rise 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.
This will be a very short trek so we have a lot of 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 the day taking a rest which will help us prepare for the next day’s long trek. Overnight in Lobuche.
We take the trail to Everest Base Camp through the once vast Gorak Shep Lake. Continuing straight ahead, we come across the Indian army mountaineers' memorials. 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.
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 that 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.
We trek down through the hillside blanketed by rhododendron and juniper trees. After crossing the prayer-flag festooned 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 reaches Sansa 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.
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.
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.
After breakfast, the trip ends, our Airport Representative will drop you to the Kathmandu international airport for your final flight departure from Nepal
Location
Faq
A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite.
A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite.
A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite.
A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite.
Average Reviews
5/5
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Showing 4 verified guest comments
Angela Hannell
Our experience with Step By Step was really enjoyable to be it during the planning of the trip or during trekking itself. During the planning phase, the company Director, Krishna Lama, always addressed our queries quickly and updated us on changes to our itinerary. Upon arriving in Nepal, we had a pre-trek briefing with Krishna and he allayed our concerns effectively. He managed our expectations for possible outcomes of the trip and assured us of the safety precautions that the company has in place for any possible emergency. For the trek, our guide Bharat and assistant guide/porter Amar were excellent. Bharat has an excellent command and he always ensured that our morale was high. Gokyo Lake and Goyo –Ri is the top profile of this trip. The Cho La pass climb is extreme and difficult to cross; When one of our teammates started facing symptoms of altitude sickness, he was calm and managed the situation effectively, assuring us that such symptoms were not uncommon. He also tailored the itinerary to our needs during the trip, specifically regarding doing EBC or Gokyo Ri first, with the main concern being the crossing direction of Cho La Pass. He gave us different options with their own pros and cons, allowing us to make an informed decision. Amar, on the other hand, was softer spoken, but he provided support to us in his own way as well. During the trek, he normally walks at the back of our group but he would often come up to assist us at more difficult portions of the trek such as at Cho La Pass. Upon arriving at our destination of the day, he often checks up on us regarding our physical condition and ensures that we always stay hydrated. As a whole, the trip with Step By Step was great and I look forward to the next trek in Nepal with them again.
Elida Beer
I have done two treks with Step By Step Company, one to Annapurna Base Camp in Apr 2017 and one to Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes in March 2020. Both of my experiences with Step By Step Company were absolutely incredible! Krishna in the booking office answered all my questions promptly and ensured everything was planned meticulously to ensure our trips ran seamlessly. My head guide for both these treks was Bharat and I cannot say enough about the extent he went to to ensure everything on the trail went smoothly and we were as comfortable as possible. Bharat would send the porters off early to ensure we got the best rooms in every tea house and there were a number of occasions we were grateful he did this as often the tea houses were full by the time we arrived! He also took our meal orders early to ensure we didn't have to wait forever for our meals! Bharat was also very aware of how each individual on the trek was faring, checking in constantly and watching out for those who were maybe struggling a bit. Our porters and Assistant guides were just as supportive and added to the whole experience. I am now looking at trekking Yala or Island Peak this year and there is no other company I would look to use!
Frances
This was my first time trekking in Nepal, but my teammates were the second time. My friends, they did pick Step by Step for their first time a few years before and they really enjoy very much with their service, also had so much fun with Krishna during the trek. So there’s no doubt that we decide to pick Step by Step again. Bharat is the guide for our EBC 13 days trek, he such a gentle, mature & funny guy that I ever met at any trek. His passion, cheerful & professional guidance amazed me. The most admirable thing is he caring for people, especially take care of one of my teammates who not in good condition during the trek. Overall, we had a good time with Bharat, full of wonderful memories. If there’s a chance to trek again in Nepal, definitely will come back again for Step by Step
Yvonne
Krish the founder of Step by Step and I came to know each other since my first trip to Nepal in 2009. It's already been 10 years and this is my third visit to Nepal this time. My friends and I in a group of four made a 15-day trekking trip to EBC + Gokyo. Definitely I opt for Step by Step again as my previous trekking experience with Krish was fabulous. This time our guide is Bharat. He and the porters were very professional and caring. Bharat possessed excellent communication skills and always provided us with alternatives and flexibility to consider. Every day he checked our guest rooms thoroughly to make sure we have a comfortable accommodation to take rest. I remember a few days the rooms were not up to par, he took the liberty to change the rooms for us. He is professional and reliable that we can always count on. During the trek, we had peace of mind as we could walk at our pace while Bharat always kept eye on us and offered help in a subtle way. He provided advice when I had altitude sickness, something he was very knowledgeable. All in all, he could manage well throughout the 15 days and we had an unforgettable one. The most memorable was, on the day we arrived EBC it was coincidentally my friend's birthday, Bharat especially requested the chef to make a birthday cake for my friend and we celebrated in the common room together, all other trekkers enjoyed the happy moment with us. In such a place without sfficient resource, we were so amazed that they can make a beautiful and delicious birthday cake! Normally EBC takes 11-12 days. But if you have time I’d recommend to include Gokyo in your EBC trip, it was an astounding experience. Chola pass no doubt is the most challenging but interesting. The acclimatization days were essential, and the tea houses were nice and ambient. I especially like Namche where there was great cafe, restaurant, outdoor brand shop. Please don’t forget to buy Nepal special edition clothes. For food, you must try dal bhat an authentic Nepalese local food. I would like to thank STEP BY STEP Agency for making my trip to Everest–Gokyo–Chola pass such an enjoyable and hassle free one. For sure I will be back for another trip with you guys someday!