EBC via Gokyo & Cho La Pass (5,420m)
18-Day Combined EBC & Gokyo Circuit
This 18-day expedition combines the best of both worlds — the legendary Everest Base Camp trek with the stunning Gokyo Valley, connected by the thrilling Cho La Pass glacier crossing at 5,420m. Starting through the Gokyo Valley for a less-crowded approach, you'll experience turquoise alpine lakes, climb Gokyo Ri, and cross into the EBC corridor via one of the Himalayas' most dramatic mountain passes.
This route is ideal for trekkers who want more than the standard EBC experience. You get the Gokyo Lakes, the Cho La glacier adventure, and the full EBC and Kala Patthar experience — all in a single, well-paced expedition that showcases the incredible diversity of the Khumbu region.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
ITINERARY
COSTS INCLUDE
COST EXCLUDE
ESSENTIAL TIPS
GALLERY
FAQ
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
Two Routes in One
Experience both the Gokyo Valley and EBC corridors in a single trek, seeing far more of the Khumbu than the standard route allows.
Cho La Pass (5,420m)
Cross this stunning glacier pass connecting the Gokyo and Everest valleys — a highlight that adds genuine adventure to the journey.
Gokyo Lakes & Gokyo Ri
Marvel at the surreal turquoise lakes and climb Gokyo Ri (5,483m) for views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier.
Everest Base Camp & Kala Patthar
The full EBC experience including the iconic Kala Patthar sunrise — standing at 5,545m as golden light paints Everest's summit.
Fewer Crowds on the Gokyo Side
The first half of this trek follows the quieter Gokyo route, offering a more peaceful experience compared to the main EBC highway.
ITINERARY DETAILS
Airport transfer, hotel check-in, and comprehensive trek briefing.
Permit processing, final gear check, and welcome dinner.
Mountain flight and gentle first-day walk. 8km, 3-4 hours.
Classic trail through Sagarmatha National Park to the Sherpa capital. 11km, 5-6 hours.
Explore viewpoints and Sherpa culture. Essential rest day.
Branch toward the Gokyo Valley on quieter trails through alpine pastures. 6km, 5-6 hours.
Continue up the Gokyo Valley with views of Cho Oyu and the Ngozumpa Glacier. 5km, 4-5 hours.
Arrive at the turquoise third Gokyo Lake — one of the most beautiful sights in Nepal. 6km, 4-5 hours.
Summit Gokyo Ri at dawn for incredible panoramas. Afternoon explore the sacred lakes.
Move toward the Cho La approach through rugged terrain alongside the glacier. 4km, 3-4 hours.
Early morning glacier crossing — the physical and scenic highpoint of the trek. Crampons required. 8km, 7-8 hours.
Short trek to the Khumbu Glacier moraine settlement. 5km, 3-4 hours.
The EBC day. Walk the glacial moraine to Base Camp and the Khumbu Icefall. 13km, 8-9 hours.
Sunrise from Kala Patthar, then long descent to Pheriche. 16km, 7-8 hours.
Rewarding descent through Pangboche and Tengboche. 20km, 6-7 hours.
Final trail day and farewell dinner. 19km, 7-8 hours.
Morning flight. Free afternoon. Farewell dinner.
Airport transfer for your onward journey.
COST INCLUDE
Airport pickup and drop-off for all flights
3 nights at a quality hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
Welcome dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant
Round-trip flights: Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu with all taxes
All required trekking permits and national park entry fees
Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) with tea/coffee during trek
Experienced, certified English-speaking trekking guide
Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers) carrying up to 14kg per person
Comfortable teahouse accommodation throughout the trek
Insurance coverage for all Nepalese staff
First aid medical kit carried by the guide
All government taxes and service charges
Trek completion certificate
Clip Himalaya duffle bag and trekking cap
COST EXCLUDE
Nepal entry visa fee
International airfare to and from Kathmandu
Personal trekking gear and equipment
Travel insurance and emergency evacuation coverage (min US$15,000)
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Bottled water, alcoholic beverages, and soft drinks during trek
Hot showers and battery charging at teahouses
Wi-Fi and internet usage along the trail
Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, snacks)
Extra accommodation due to early arrival or flight delays
Tips for guide and porters
Drone and special filming permits
Costs from natural disasters or flight cancellations
Crampon and ice axe rental for Cho La Pass
ESSENTIAL TIPS
Physical Preparation
Begin a training routine 2-3 months before departure. Focus on cardio endurance and leg strength — hiking, running, and stair climbing are ideal. Walking 6-8 hours daily at altitude demands a solid fitness base.
Altitude Awareness
Altitude sickness can affect anyone regardless of fitness. Stay hydrated (3-4 liters daily), avoid alcohol, and follow the golden rule: climb high, sleep low. Never ignore persistent headaches or nausea — communicate immediately with your guide.
Packing Light
Your porter carries up to 14kg, and you carry a daypack with essentials. Layer your clothing: thermal base, insulating fleece, waterproof shell. Break in your trekking boots well before the trip.
Best Seasons
March–May (spring) and September–November (autumn) offer the best conditions with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Winter treks are possible but significantly colder.
Lukla Flights
Flights to Lukla are weather-dependent and delays happen. Always keep a buffer day before international connections. Helicopter transfers are available at extra cost.
Cash & Connectivity
Carry Nepali rupees — ATMs are only in Kathmandu and Namche. Wi-Fi exists at teahouses for a fee. A local Ncell SIM card provides basic connectivity.
Cho La Pass Readiness
The glacier crossing at Cho La is weather-dependent and physically demanding. Your guide will assess conditions — be prepared for an alternate route if conditions are unsafe. Bring or rent crampons.
Ready to trek?
Tell us your dates and group size. After advance payment, we send you guided breathing techniques for altitude and backpacking skills for the trail. Want professional photos, video, or drone shots of your trek? Just ask.
