Everest Gokyo Trek (5,420m)
18-Day Combined Everest & Gokyo Adventure
The Everest Gokyo Trek is an 18-day expedition that combines two of the Khumbu region's most spectacular destinations into one unforgettable journey. Cross the technical Cho La Pass at 5,420m, marvel at the turquoise Gokyo Lakes, and stand at Everest Base Camp — all in a single trek that showcases the very best of Nepal's high Himalayas.
Unlike the standard EBC route, this trek takes you through the quieter Gokyo Valley with its pristine alpine lakes and the panoramic summit of Gokyo Ri (5,483m). The glacier crossing at Cho La Pass adds an element of adventure that sets this apart as a truly world-class trekking experience, recommended for those with solid fitness and a desire for something beyond the ordinary.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
ITINERARY
COSTS INCLUDE
COST EXCLUDE
ESSENTIAL TIPS
GALLERY
FAQ
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
Cho La Pass Crossing (5,420m)
Navigate this dramatic glacier pass connecting the Gokyo and EBC valleys — a thrilling technical highlight requiring crampons and offering spectacular alpine scenery.
Gokyo Lakes & Gokyo Ri (5,483m)
Witness the otherworldly turquoise Gokyo Lakes and climb Gokyo Ri for a sweeping panorama of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier.
Everest Base Camp & Kala Patthar
Experience the iconic Base Camp at 5,364m and catch sunrise from Kala Patthar (5,545m) — the finest viewpoint in the entire Everest region.
Ngozumpa Glacier
Walk alongside Nepal's longest glacier, a massive river of ice stretching over 36km through the heart of the Khumbu.
Quieter Trails
The Gokyo Valley sees far fewer trekkers than the standard EBC route, offering a more intimate and peaceful mountain experience.
ITINERARY DETAILS
Airport meet, hotel transfer, and evening trek briefing with your guide.
Permit processing, gear check, and free time to explore the capital.
Scenic mountain flight followed by a gentle 8km warm-up trek along the Dudh Koshi.
Enter Sagarmatha National Park. First Everest views as you arrive at the Sherpa capital. 11km, 5-6 hours.
Explore viewpoints, markets, and the Sherpa museum at your own pace.
Branch off the main EBC trail toward the Gokyo Valley. The path climbs through pastoral landscapes with far fewer trekkers. 6km, 5-6 hours.
Ridge walking with panoramic views of Kangtega, Cho Oyu, and the approaching Ngozumpa Glacier. 5km, 4-5 hours.
Arrive at the stunning Gokyo settlement beside the turquoise third lake. The views are extraordinary. 6km, 4-5 hours.
Pre-dawn ascent of Gokyo Ri for a 360-degree panorama of eight 8,000m+ peaks. Afternoon explore the lakes and glacier.
Move toward the Cho La Pass approach through rugged glacial terrain. 4km, 3-4 hours.
Early start for the demanding glacier crossing. Crampons required. A physically intense but incredibly rewarding day. 8km, 7-8 hours.
Short trek along the Khumbu Glacier moraine to Lobuche, the gateway to Base Camp. 5km, 3-4 hours.
Reach Everest Base Camp, witness the Khumbu Icefall, and return to Gorak Shep. 13km, 8-9 hours.
Sunrise from Kala Patthar — the ultimate viewpoint. Then descend to the warmer air of Dingboche. 16km, 7-8 hours.
A long, rewarding descent retracing the main trail through Tengboche and Pangboche. 20km, 6-7 hours.
Final trail day. Celebrate with your team over a farewell dinner. 19km, 7-8 hours.
Morning flight. Free afternoon for sightseeing or shopping. 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 if needed
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 Preparation
The Cho La glacier crossing requires basic crampon use. Your guide will assist, but familiarize yourself with walking on ice beforehand. Start early (4-5 AM) as conditions worsen by afternoon.
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.
