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Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek

Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek

Mountains and Emerald Lakes

  • Group Size:Min 1 Max 12
  • Duration:20 Days
  • Max Altitude:5,545m/18,193ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse / Lodge
  • Activity:Trekking in Nepal
  • Meal:Meals included
  • Trip Grade:Challenging
  • Start Point:Kathmandu
  • End Point:Kathmandu
Package difficulty Challenging  

Trip Overview

Highlights

  • Breathtaking views of Mountains and emerald lakes
  • Two major viewpoints [Kalapathar and Gokyo Ri]
  • Everest Base Camp and Cho La pass
  • Sherpa villages, beautiful landscapes and spiritual ambience

Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek is a 3 weeks venture that takes you through the outstanding Gokyo Valley add more zing to the renowned Everest Base Camp trip as we traverse the high altitude Cho La pass at an elevation of 5420m where the landscapes open up windows to a whole chain of mountains that leaves us hypnotized.

From the base of the earth to the highest peak in the world, it’s the mid-hills geography of the Khumbu Himalayas where this journey goes the limits as a challenge to the backpacker who wants to go the mile where real adventure challenges the emotions when ‘Trekking Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes’; this is a trip that’s worth the go for a thrilling holiday well operated where we soon learn it’s not the destination but the excitement of the mission that means much…

Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek begin from the lower hills & head up by the banks of the Dudh Kosi River on our way to the bustling town of Namche and the Sagarmatha National Park, one of the highest in the world. Our real journey starts with some gentle hiking at the foothills of the Khumbu and the momentum picks up as we climb up to the tougher trails to the base of Mt. Everest by going around the Chola pass at an elevation of 5420m. We also hike to the summit of both Gokyo Ri at [5340m] and Kala Pathar at [5545m] for majestic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu and Cho Oyu. While visiting the renowned Everest Base Camp, it’s a breathtaking experience to view the awesome Khumbu icefall that makes our hearts flutter.

You don’t have to be a skilled climber but Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek require some level of fitness to enjoy the trails. Because of the snowy conditions over Cho La Pass, it wouldn’t be good to do this trek during winter [January and February] and in the monsoon season [July and August]. Spring and Autumn would be the best times to do this trip.

If you are looking to do this trip and yet want to shorten the trip duration check our Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Heli Trek. 

How difficult is the Everest base camp and Gokyo lakes trek?

Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek is a longer trek reaching up to an elevation of 5500m where some of the famous mountaineering Base Camps are located and you need to sleep at an elevation of 5000m for a few days. Physically challenging, involving daily trekking of approximately   6 – 8 hours. No previous trekking experience is required but you should be moderately fit and must enjoy walking and be adaptable to high-altitude conditions.

Important Note: Your safety is of imperative concern while travelling with Highland Expeditions. Please take care to note that your leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to your safety concerns. Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, since this adventure entails travelling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. Weather, health condition of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The trek leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.

Trip Itinerary

  • Day 01 - Arrive in Kathmandu [1,350m/4,430ft]

    Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal. Upon completing the visa formalities and collecting your luggages in the airport, kindly proceed to the exit of the arrival hall. Your trip leader will await you just outside the arrival hall and will escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Please look out for a placard of Highland Expeditions at the exit of arrival hall. Welcome drinks will be served and after you’ve refreshed, your trek leader will brief you about your trip in the lobby of your hotel in the evening. Get familiar with your surroundings by taking a walk down the street

    • Meal: Welcome Dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Trekking Hours: 0
  • Day 02 - Exploration of Kathmandu and trek preparation [1,350m/4,430ft]

    Today we explore Kathmandu on an organized sightseeing tour. This will include a visit to the Bodhnath Stupa, one of the biggest Buddhist shrines in the world. We also visit Pashupatinath, located on the banks of the holy Bagmati River and home to the most famous Hindu temple in the country. Here we will see Hindu holy men (sadhus) and pilgrims performing ritual bathing, and occasionally, funeral pyres burning on the ghats. The cremation site here is used by the royal family and also for the simple man living next door. Your early afternoon will be free to relax in the hotel garden or visit Thamel for some curious shopping. You will be given your trek departure information in the afternoon.

    • Meal: B
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Trekking Hours: 0
  • Day 03 - Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding [2,600m/8,531ft]

    After an early morning b/fast, we take the super flight from Kathmandu to Lukla on STOL aircraft. Flight time is about 35 minutes to the airstrip built by Sir Edmund Hillary and the Sherpas in the mid-1960s. After landing we will have time to explore the village while the Sherpa crew sort out and load the trekking equipment. In the afternoon, we begin the trek by descending towards the Dudh Kosi River, where we join the main trail to Namche Bazaar, just above Chaurikharka at 2713m. The walking is easy and after passing through the small village of Ghat at 2550m, it’s a short walk to Phakding.
    Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: 1,250m/4,100ft

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 3 - 4
  • Day 04 - Trek to Namche Bazar [3,450m/11,319ft]

    We will continue our journey along Dudhkoshi River which will take us through pine forest. After crossing suspension bridges at several points and passing through small settlements of Zapute, Toktok, Benkar and Chumoa, we will reach Monjo. Ahead of Monjo is the entry to the Sagarmatha National Park planned to look after and preserve the fragile mountain environment. Lowering down from the park, crossing another suspension bridge, we will proceed towards high Hillary Bridge located at the foot of the hill. Crossing this bridge, we will climb uphill to the Namche Bazaar. We can get view of Thamserku Mountain. If weather is clear, we can also have first view of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Kusum Khangru mountains.
    Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: 850m/2,788ft

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 6 - 7
  • Day 05 - Acclimatization Day [3,450m/11,319ft]

    We remain at Namche for a second night to allow for proper acclimatization to the altitude. Namche is a prosperous village, situated in a large protected hollow. After breakfast, there are a number of options: perhaps a hike up to Everest view hotel, Khumjung and Khunde, or walk towards Thame (3810m) above the beautiful Bhote Khola river valley, or a visit to the National Park Headquarters to see the interesting displays of Sherpa lifestyle and culture. There is also a mountaineering display and details of the park’s flora and fauna. Your guides will be on hand to offer advice and escort you on your walks.

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 4 - 5
  • Day 06 - Trek to Dole [4,040m/13,255ft]

    Today it’s a steep climb out of Namche Bazaar up to Kyangjuma Village. At Kyangjuma, we can contemplate on terrific views of Thamserku, Kantega, and Ama Dablam. The tough part of today is sure going to be the ascent of the Mong La, a very appealing place hanging on the spur of Mt. Khumbila. A medieval historical Chorten stands at the centre of the settlement of Mong La. We spend some time at the top of Mong La to look with awe at the surrounding snow-capped mountains and valleys while enjoying lunch. The most eye catching feature of the trail today is the wealth of plant and animal vegetation including wildflowers and Rhododendrons that we see on the way. We may even spot wild lives like pheasants, mountain goats, and the subtle musk deer. Continuing our hike through forests, some waterfalls and bridges, we reach Dole, a small village with few teahouses.
    Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: 590m/1,936ft

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 6 - 7
  • Day 07 - Trek to Machhermo[4,470m/14,665ft]

    Today it’s another short day starting with a climb out of the small Dole Valley before ascending more gradually up the Dudh Kosi valley, high above the river. The walking is easy, but we will still feel the effects of altitude on even the smallest hillock. The barren alpine scenery with only small clusters of scrub juniper is a stark contrast to the snowy white peaks and deep blue skies. After two hours, we will arrive at Luza (4360m), and after a further hour's walk we reach our lodge at Machhermo (4465m) where you will spend the evening. After lunch there is an option to take an excursion across rocky moraines to the base of Kyajo Ri (6168m) and Machhermo Peak (6073m). However, keep an eye open for the Yeti! It was here, in 1974 that three yaks were killed and a Sherpa girl injured when trying to fight off a hairy, ape-like intruder that could have been a hungry grizzly bear!
    Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: 430m/1,411ft

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 3 - 4
  • Day 08 - Rest and Acclimatization Day[4,470m/14,665ft]

    We are more or less nearing an altitude of 4500m, so we haul up at Machhermo for an extra day to acclimatize by getting our bodies used to the thin air as we climb up. There are plenty of outlets for exploration around the camp and just above the village there is a gracious vista that encircles Cho Oyu at [8210m] and the mountains which flank the Ngozumpa Glacier.

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 3 - 4
  • Day 09 - Trek to Gokyo [4,800m/15,750ft]

    After breakfast, we climb through a crest Chorten from where we enjoy master views of the valley below and Mt. Kangtega, Thamserku, and the northern part of Cho-Oyu at (8153m). Beyond the ridge the valley opens out as the trail passes through a Chorten and reaches Phangka at (4480m) after a brief soft hike. Phangka is an area where an avalanche in 1995 killed 40 people.We descend to the river bank before beginning to climb up to the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpa Glacier. It is a steep climb on the moraine. After crossing an iron bridge over a stream the traill levels out as it follows the valley past the first lake, known as Longpongo at 4690m, where we get chance to see the Lama footprints on a stone. As we see the sights of the second lake, Taboche Tsho, we watch in awe the glimmering turquoise blue mass of water dazzling in the sunshine. Just ahead of the second lake, we reach the third lake, the two connected by a heaving stream. Gokyo village is neatly placed by the third lake and Cho-Oyu Mountains stand tall in the backdrops, setting off stunning scenery, an ideal spot for our video cams to go on overdrive at this awesome area. After lunch, we discover more of the third Lake, Dudh Pokhari.
    Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: 330m/1,083ft

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 5 - 6
  • Day 10 - Hike to Gokyo Ri [5,357m/17,575ft] and trek to Thagnak [4,750m/15,584ft]

    After having enjoyed a lot of Gokyo which is for sure, we soon leave this zone with life time memories never to be forgotten. After relishing a warm breakfast, we trek down to Thagnak for overnight scaling by the second of the Lakes; the route across the glacier is identified by cairns and is pretty well determined. We climb off the glacier by a small dwelling known as Thagnak and follow a low valley to our camp by a small kharka.
    Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: -50m/-164ft

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 6 - 7
  • Day 11 - Traverse Chola pass [5,420m/17,783ft] and trek to Dzongla [4820m/15,814ft]

    Cho La Pass is also another show up of this trip. Today is the toughest day and we need to start early (4-6 am) compared to other days on the trip. The 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 add trouble to the trekkers making the trail slippery. While trekking through the side of a frozen lake we reach at 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 soar on the west and Lobuche East and Baruntse rises sharply to our right. We need to pass through some crevasses before we reach Dzongla, another beautiful place with a complete view of Mt. Cholatse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Lobuche peak and the Pheriche village far below.
    Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: 70m/230ft

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 7 - 8
  • Day 12 - Trek to Lobuche [4,910m/16,109ft]

    From Dzongla, we plod higher onto the pretty risky moraine of the Khumbu glacier, passing a chain of stone monuments built in memory of Sherpas and Climbers who have died on mountaineering expeditions to Mt Everest. From hereabouts, the trail lowers and goes by the west side of the valley to Lobuche. The sunset on Nuptse from this point is an amazing sight to behold.
    Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: 90m/296ft

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 4 - 5
  • Day 13 - Trek to Everest Base Camp [5,364m/17,559ft] and retrace back to Gorekshep[5,140m/16,864ft]

    A real early start is required to reach the Everest Base Camp. It takes several hours as the trail weaves its way through ice pinnacles and past the crevasses of the Khumbu Glacier. After a brief lunch and rest, we take the trail to Everest Base Camp through the once vast Gorak Shep Lake. Only upon reaching the Everest Base Camp do we really appreciate the Everest climbers who brave the risky route through the Khumbu icefall. Mountaineer's tents 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. On the return leg, we can take a higher route to get a grand view of the Khumbu icefall and the route to the South Col. We return to Gorakshep for a restful night.
    Overall elevation gain tonight from previous night: 230m/755ft

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 7 - 8
  • Day 14 - Hike up to Kalapathar [5,545m/18,193ft] in early morning and descend to Pheriche [4,250m/13,944ft]

    Today is the pinnacle of our trip. We start at the break of dawn to catch the heartwarming views from Kala Patthar witnessing the first light of day shining on Mount Everest. However, we need to get prepared for an early morning, dark and chilly temperature (-10 to -14 C) departure beforehand. Further, there is always the likely chance for strong wind which is quite common. Familiar peaks such as Lingtren, Khumbutse, Changtse tower to the east even as Everest begins to expose itself emerging between the west shoulder crest and Nuptse. During the ascent to Kala Patthar, we can pause to catch our breath at several dazzling viewpoints to snap pictures. After several hours of an ascent, we reach Kala Patthar. From this juncture, we jumble to climb the rocky outcrop near to the summit marked by cairns and prayer flags. As we reach the top, we sit on the Kala Patthar where rocks our eyes taking unbelievable Himalayan Panorama, wandering from one mighty massif to another. We take as many pictures as we can and take the views with our memories to last a lifetime. We then descend to Gorekshep, have breakfast and we retrace our steps to Duglha and descend to Pheriche, we arrive at The Himalayan Rescue Association, a trekker’s aid post and worth a visit.

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 7 - 8
  • Day 15 - Trek to Kyanjuma [3,500m/11,483ft]

    Today we descend down, we revert on our previous route and descend to Kyanjuma, we crash out here for the night before heading down to Monjo the next day.
    We cross the Khumbu Khola on a wooden suspension bridge and follow the Imja Khola to the village of Pangboche and another.

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 6 - 7
  • Day 16 - Trek to Monjo [2,850m/9,351ft]

    The trail to Namche Bazar hangs on to a steep wooded slope beyond Kyanjuma, meandering through several bends. We lookout for fauna that include mountain goats, snow leopards, and colorful pheasants while passing through the forest on the trail. We have enough time in Namche to shop and freak out in a bakery that serves coffee and cakes, and provides Internet access. A steep descent from Namche Hill leads to the suspension bridge crossing the Dudh Kosi River near the confluence of the Dhudh Koshi and the Bhote Koshi Rivers. We cross the Dudh Koshi River twice at separate locations before reaching Monjo. We are out of the Sagarmatha National Park after exiting from its official entrance near Monjo and finally reach Monjo Village. Not only is Monjo a quieter place to stay than Namche, it also means our porters have a less strenuous walk back to Lukla tomorrow.

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 5 - 6
  • Day 17 - Trek to Lukla [2,800m/9187ft]

    Our last day of trek following the Dudh Kosi River down to Lukla. It’s only a gradual walk along the Dudhkhosi river after our steep descent from Namche. We’ll have lunch on our way and we make the final climb up to the airstrip at Lukla. Rest of the day is free and you can relax under the warm sun & reflect on the emotional experiences we had while hiking through these massive mountains that have probably helped us re-discover ourselves in ways least expected. This is our final day on these fantastic mountains. Later we celebrate our successful completion of trek with our Sherpa guides and porters who we’ve got to know so well & are now good friends. It’s a pleasure to end this wonderful trip on a happy note. We then slumber into blissful sleep.

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge
    • Trekking Hours: 4 - 5
  • Day 18 - Fly to Kathmandu [1,350m/4,430ft]

    We get up early in the morning, enjoy our b/fast & get ready for the arrival of our aircraft for the flight back to Katmandu. On our touchdown at the Kathmandu airport, we will be met by our office reps and transferred to your hotel. Rest of your day is free to do your own things.

    • Meal: B, L, D
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Trekking Hours: 0
  • Day 19 - Free day in Kathmandu [1,350m/4,430ft]

    Free and easy day to spend, perhaps doing shopping or rest at hotel’s beautiful court-yard. At eventide, we will relish a farewell dinner to celebrate your successful completion of the ‘Gokyo with Everest Base Camp Trek.’ While enjoying our supper, we will also be entertained to a scintillating cultural dance performed by the local belles
    Please do not hesitate to let us know if you would like to extend your stay. Kindly email us for more details on extensions.

    • Meal: B
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Trekking Hours: 0
  • Day 20 - Depart Kathmandu

    Thank you for joining us on this trek and it has been a pleasure getting to know you during this time. We hope this venture has enriched your experience with happy memories. Keep in touch and hope to hear from you soon. Bon voyage for a safe and pleasant trip home.

    • Meal: B
    • Accommodation: None

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    • Trekking Hours:
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Dates & Price

Our trips are available on both fixed departure and private group basis.

If you are looking for a group to join this trip please click the Fixed Departures tab for more information on departure dates, availability and price. All our fixed departures are guaranteed to run. Or, if you would like to do this trip alone, or with your friends, families & colleagues in a private group style, please fill out the contact form in Private Group tab and send us your message. We will organize a private trip for you at your preferred dates catering any request you may have.

Check Available Dates

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Mar, 2024

Trip Start Date18 Mar, 2024
Trip End Date06 Apr, 2024
PriceUSD 1999
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Trip Start Date25 Mar, 2024
Trip End Date13 Apr, 2024
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Apr, 2024

Trip Start Date01 Apr, 2024
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May, 2024

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Trip Start Date12 May, 2024
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Sep, 2024

Trip Start Date23 Sep, 2024
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Oct, 2024

Trip Start Date01 Oct, 2024
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Trip Start Date27 Oct, 2024
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Nov, 2024

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Trip Start Date10 Nov, 2024
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Mar, 2025

Trip Start Date24 Mar, 2025
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Apr, 2025

Trip Start Date07 Apr, 2025
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Trip Start Date28 Apr, 2025
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May, 2025

Trip Start Date05 May, 2025
Trip End Date24 May, 2025
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Trip Start Date12 May, 2025
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Sep, 2025

Trip Start Date29 Sep, 2025
Trip End Date18 Oct, 2025
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Oct, 2025

Trip Start Date06 Oct, 2025
Trip End Date25 Oct, 2025
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Trip Start Date13 Oct, 2025
Trip End Date01 Nov, 2025
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Trip Start Date20 Oct, 2025
Trip End Date08 Nov, 2025
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Trip Start Date27 Oct, 2025
Trip End Date15 Nov, 2025
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Nov, 2025

Trip Start Date03 Nov, 2025
Trip End Date22 Nov, 2025
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Trip Start Date10 Nov, 2025
Trip End Date29 Nov, 2025
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Trip Start Date17 Nov, 2025
Trip End Date06 Dec, 2025
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Cost Inclusion

  • All meals (B,L,D) on OPEN/CHOICE Menu whilst on trek with tea & coffee.
  • Twin sharing accommodation at Kathmandu guest house or similar category for 4 nights with breakfast
  • All required permits for trek (National Park & TIMS Card)
  • Internal flights (KTM-LUKLA-KTM)
  • Experienced local trek leader with 1:4 assistant guide to client ratio
  • Full support crew with 1 porter for every 2 trekkers
  • Half day sightseeing of Kathmandu's highlights including guide and entrance fees
  • Kathmandu airport transfers and escorts on private vehicle
  • All ground transportation as per mentioned in the itinerary on private vehicle
  • Comprehensive first aid kit with high altitude medicines and oxygen
  • Satellite phone for emergency and nominal charge for personal use.
  • Duffel bag, Sleeping bag with liner and Down Jacket (Sleeping bag and down jacket must be returned after completion of trek)
  • Staff equipment, insurance and allowances
  • Trek completion certificate (Upon request)
  • Group welcome dinner at Typical Nepalese Restaurant 

Cost Exclusion

  • International airfare, Visa and travel insurance
  • Meals at Kathmandu
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or on trek for any reason (Early arrival or delay, Early arrival from trek due to any reason)
  • Personal expenses
  • Gratuities for staff

Essential Information

Difficulty

Grading: 5-6 (Challenging)
Longer treks reaching up to an elevation of 5500m where some of the famous mountaineering Base Camps are located and you need to sleep at an elevation of 5000m for a few days. Physically strenuous, involving daily trekking of approximately 6–8 hours. No previous trekking experience is required but you should be moderately fit and must enjoy walking and adaptable to high altitude conditions.

Prerequisities

No previous experience of trekking is required but you should be moderately fit and must enjoy walking and adaptable to high altitude conditions. Having a previous experience is definitely beneficial but it is not must to participate for this trip. All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. We strongly advise you to prepare yourself for the trip at least 3 months prior to your trip date by doing regular exercises, going on hiking, running or gym. The fitter you are, the more enjoyable you will find the experience of trekking. All our trip itinerary has been devised keeping every aspect in mind and allows ample time for acclimatization

Accommodation

Hotel:  4 Nights, Teahouse/Lodge: 15 Nights

Kathmandu: 
In Kathmandu, we stay at Kathmandu Guest House, a well-known hotel where many famous celebrities like Beatles, Ricky Martin, Jeremy Irons and others have stayed. Centrally located in Thamel, the hotel also boasts of a beautiful garden where you can relax and enjoy the greenery. Breakfast will be provided in the hotel and your accommodation will be on twin sharing basis and if you would like to have a single room, upon request you are required to pay single supplement price as stated in the trip costing.
Regardless of whether you're coming back from the mountains or touching base from the airport, come and unwind at the hotel beautiful garden, request some fine Italian espresso or a chilled Beer, and escape in the memorable surroundings of Kathmandu's most adored guesthouse.

On Trek:
Your accommodation on the trek will be on a simple mountain lodges run by the local people with basic and shared facilities. Trekking in the (Everest area) does not need tremendous logistics in accommodation as there are many clean and friendly Lodges along the trail. Rooms are basic, normally just a bed with a pillow and blankets but with a wonderful view from your window.  All the teahouses/lodges have a spacious warm dining room-lounge. The rooms are fairly basic. Blankets are generally provided by the teahouse but we will provide a warm sleeping bag to everyone. Bathrooms are mostly shared and toilets are squat type in most places. We will arrange for you and your group to stay in local lodges daily. Please remember that some of them are very basic and a sense of adventure is necessary.

Single supplement: 
Single supplement will be charged if someone wishes to have their own room in Kathmandu. Especially when travelling in a group, we will always pair you with someone of the same sex and similar age to share the room with. If in case of a single by default, then clients don’t have to pay for the single supplement. Please note that on the trek, a single supplement is not available due to limited rooms

Meals

All meals are included during the trek (Day 02 to Day 13). We will provide three meals a day (B, L, D) during the trek. The menus in the teahouses are varied, ranging from traditional Nepalese dhal bhat, Momo (Dumpling) to pizza and apple pie. Despite the fact that meat is available in the teahouses, we prompt against eating it on the trek. The meat has frequently been conveyed in the warmth from lower elevations for a few days before arriving at the teahouses and can cause stomach upsets or disease. During the trek, Breakfast and Dinner will be served at the teahouse/lodge where you stay and Lunch will be along the way.

If you have any special dietary requirements please let us know in advance and we will be sure to pass your message to your guide. For a gluten-free diet, we highly recommend you to bring extra foods especially for breakfast as your options for the breakfast will be limited. Meals worth USD 450-500 are included on this trip. In Kathmandu, only breakfast will be provided to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where what and with whom to eat for lunch and dinner.

B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D= Dinner

Drinking Water

We offer hot-boiled water for drinking purposes on our treks to minimize the environmental impact of single-use plastic bottles. Please remember to bring a reusable water bottle or Thermos that can withstand hot water, and feel free to ask our guides to refill it during meal times, particularly at breakfast and dinner.

While bottled water is available at lodges, prices may range from USD 1 to USD 3 as we ascend in altitude. Alternatively, you can bring water purification tablets or a filtration device for your convenience.

Best Time

The best seasons to trek to the Everest region are Autumn (latter half of September till December) and Spring (latter half of March until mid-May). On both seasons, Mornings are usually clear, with clouds building up in the afternoon and disappearing at night. The given temperature may raise or lower with the change in weather factors: (Sunny, Snow, Rain etc.)

Autumn/Fall:
Slightly colder than Spring but presents clear views of the mountains. The mornings are clear providing best mountain views, days are warmer and night time will get cold and frosty. The temperature during Autumn varies from lowest -10 degree Celsius at Gorekshep to warmest 25 degree Celsius at Lukla/Phakding.

Spring:
Another weather window for trekking in Nepal comes during the month of the latter March to May. The temperature will be relatively warmer during this period of time but still, nights will be cold and frosty at a higher elevation. Temperatures will drop considerably as you ascend higher every day. During the spring season, the base camp will be full of tents as Apr-May are preferred time to climb Mt. Everest.

Read more about the best time: https://highlandexpeditions.com/best-time-to-visit-nepal/

Travel Insurance

It’s mandatory and highly recommended to get travel insurance before embarking on any adventurous trips in Nepal. We advise all our clients to get travel insurance that covers up emergency helicopter evacuation that may be needed in case of the occurrence of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) or any other reasons in high altitudes where there are no other means of transportation available. It is advisable to review carefully the insurance and its coverages before making the final decision. Carry proof of your insurance with you on the holiday and leave a copy next to your kin. You must ensure that your insurance provides an adequate level of protection and covers you for the activities involved.

More information: Travel Insurance

Safety

Safety is always a priority while travelling with Highland Expeditions. On all our high altitude treks, we send supplementary oxygen system and a comprehensive medical kit be it a group of 1 or 12. Besides, we also have a high staff to client ratio on all our treks. 

Group Size

Our emphasis is always on maintaining the small group so that it will be easy to coordinate and cooperate with each other. Our group size is small and we only take up to 12 pax in one group. If you opt to join our ‘fixed departure trip’, you are likely to be joining people from different countries of any age group except minors. The size of the group varies, minimum no of persons required to operate the trip is 1 and the maximum is 12 people.

Baggage and Weight

Each client will receive an individual duffel bag for packing their gear. Our duffel bags have an approximate capacity of 80 liters, and we kindly ask clients to ensure that their duffel bag weight remains under 15 kgs. The baggage allowance for Nepal's domestic airlines is a total of 15 kg (10 kgs for the duffel bag and 5 kgs for the backpack) but we can offer additional baggage allowance. We request clients to keep the duffel bag weight under 15 kgs due to porter weight restrictions, allowing maximum of 30 kgs weight per porter. We provide 1 porter for every 2 participants.

During the trek, clients are required to carry only a day pack containing essentials such as a water bottle, camera, sunscreen, spare jacket, etc. This light load ensures a more enjoyable trekking experience. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we will provide clients with a duffel bag, and any additional luggage or items not needed during the trek can be stored at the hotel in Kathmandu.

Training

Everest Base Camp Trek is a premier trek that most ardent backpackers, hikers, and lovers of wild places aspire to. The trek is graded challenging and training yourself well ahead will definitely improve your performance during the trek. Answering this question can be a challenge because everyone is starting from a different base of fitness, age, lifestyle, and diet (what you eat on a daily basis). 

Always consult with your doctor first to establish if you are healthy enough for the challenges of all-day trekking at high elevation for over a week. Once cleared for takeoff, so to speak, consulting with a qualified trainer, and a nutritionist may also prove beneficial, though many do not.

Read this to find out more about training advice. This is an outline prepared to offer some guidance and tips as to how to begin training for Everest base camp trek.

Approach

Our route to Everest base camp and Gokyo Lakes follows a careful approach with ample time for acclimatization, less trodden route and breathtaking sceneries along the way. With over 30 years of experience in trekking and climbing in the Himalayas, we have carefully tailored each of our itineraries. We put a lot of care into all the details when it comes to executing any of your ventures. Safety is always a priority while travelling with Highland Expeditions and we have applied this strictly on our approach.

Typical Day

Daily wake up calls will be between 6.00 am to 7.00 am while on the trek. The wake-up time and breakfast time will be decided a night before during the briefing time. The time table for each day will entirely depend on your walking duration for that particular day.

After a hearty breakfast, we set off on the day's walk. Before breakfast, you are required to pack your duffel bag as it will be loaded by the porter while you are having your breakfast. After 3-4 hours of walk, we stop for lunch mid-day.  The afternoon's walk is generally shorter and we usually arrive at our destination in time for afternoon tea. The rest of the afternoon can be spent exploring the village, to wash your clothes or simply relaxing with a good book. On some days, we will arrive at our destination by lunchtime and the entire afternoon will be free. After dinner, the evening will often be spent playing cards and reliving the day's adventures, before heading off to bed for a well-earned sleep.

Guide

We possess a deep passion for alpine adventure & the outdoors, and with the small professional group we have on board, we’ve notched up experience that spans almost 3 decades on some of the most isolated trails and highest peaks. We take great pride in calling ourselves a ‘high-altitude adventure specialist’ and all this is due to our diverse and qualified team of guides. Most of our guides were born in these parts & have relatives living in other parts of the regions where they were born in.

Your trip will be led by a qualified guide with 1 porter to every 2 participants and 1 assistant guide to every 4 participants. 

Group Joining/Private Trip

Our trips are available on both fixed departure and private basis. If you are looking for a group to join this trip please check our departures section for availability, dates and price. If you would like to travel independently, or with your friends, families & colleagues you are invited to choose any of the trips at your convenient timeframe for any number of people. If you want to do something that is not included in our trip list, we are ready to tailor a trip to suit your exact requirements. In short, we will make every effort to get you on the trip you want, when you want.

Passport, Visa and Entry Requirements

Passport: All foreign visitors to Nepal must possess a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity beyond their planned departure date. 

Visa: Nepal visa can be obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport (Tribhuvan International Airport) or you can obtain Nepal visa prior to your arrival through the Nepalese embassies, diplomatic missions and consulates near your location. Nepal Visa is also issued at the entry points if you are entering Nepal by land. 

Visa Fees: Nepal visa fees are listed below as per the duration. 

Multiple entry 15 days – US$ 30 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 30 days – US$ 50 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 90 days – US$ 125 or equivalent convertible currency

Important Note: It is always advisable to verify the visa requirements upon booking your trip. Visa requirements may vary depending on where you are from and its also recommended to check the transit country requirements as well.

While we share this information in good faith, it is crucial for you to independently verify it and acknowledge that you bear full responsibility for your visa requirements. 

Additional Information

Point of Arrival:
Your point of arrival should be Tribhuvan International Airport located in Kathmandu, Nepal. 

Meeting Instructions:
Your meeting point is at Kathmandu’s airport, Tribhuvan International Airport. Upon arrival at Kathmandu’s Airport, Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), kindly pay your visa fee and proceed to immigration to apply for VOA (Visa On Arrival), customs clearing and then collect your luggage. Outside the arrival hall, please look out for our team member holding a placard stating ‘Highland Expeditions ’ and you will be escorted to your hotel for checking in.

Airport Pickup and Drop:
We will provide airport pickup and drop-off according to your flight schedule. Your airport transfers are organized based on the flight information you provide to us. If there is a change in your flight schedule, please inform us promptly, and we will adjust the transfers accordingly. Upon arrival, please be on the lookout for our team member holding a placard that reads 'Highland Expeditions' in the arrival area. You will be greeted and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Similarly, for your departure, we will take you to the airport in accordance with your flight schedule.

Emergency Contact for Airport Transfers: +9779860763929 (Dawa Sherpa)

Equipment List

The gear listed below is recommended for Everest Base Camp Base Camp Gokyo Lakes Trek. We encourage you to get all the equipment listed below for the trip and kindly ensure you check and try every piece of equipment. You can also buy or hire the same in Kathmandu as they are available in the many trekking shops from branded to local manufacturers in Kathmandu.

Head gears:

  • Sunhat
  • Warm hat (should cover head & ear comfortably)
  • Buffs X 2
  • Sunglasses (High-quality, UV-blocking sunglasses with good all-around protection)
  • Headlamp with spare batteries (200-300 lumens output)

Upper Body:

  • Thermal or fleece base layer top X 2
  • Short Sleeve Trekking shirts X 2
  • Full Sleeve trekking shirts X 2
  • Soft-shell jacket/fleece jacket X 2
  • Light down jacket X 1
  • Hardshell jacket with a hood X 1
  • Insulated Down Jacket (provided by us at request)

Lower body:

  • Thermal or fleece base layer bottom X 2
  • Trekking trousers/pants X 2
  • Warm trekking trousers X 1
  • Hardshell pants (Non-insulated and waterproof)       
  • Insulated down pants (optional)                                                                                              

Underwear:

  • 4 pairs of synthetic or wool fabrics only

Footwear:

  • Waterproof Hiking Boots (GoreTex and Good Tread) 
  • Hiking socks X 4 pairs medium to heavy (synthetic and wool)
  • Liner socks X 2
  • Camp shoes to wear at the teahouse
  • Gaiters
  • Yaktrax / Microspikes 

Handwear:

  • Softshell gloves X 1
  • Heavyweight gloves X 1

Gears / Personal equipment:

  • Daypack 30-35 litres with rain cover
  • Waterproof Duffel bag (provided by us at request)
  • Down Sleeping bag (-15 C rated) (provided by us at request)
  • One-litre capacity water bottle X 2 (Nalgene & Thermos)
  • Trekking poles
  • Camera with charger or spare batteries
  • Personal snacks and energy bars (you can buy them during the trek too)
  • Laundry bag to keep the dirty clothes
  • Padlock (Optional)
  • Rain Poncho
  • Large plastic bags to keep the clothes dry
  • Extra clothes to wear in Kathmandu when you come back from the trek.
  • Flip flop or sneaker to wear in city 

Toiletries and hygiene:

  • Quick-drying towel
  • Small face towel
  • Toothbrush &Toothpaste
  • Face mask
  • Water treatment tools or tablets (Recommended: Aquatabs)
  • Deodorants, Soap and Shampoo (Smaller bottle)
  • Face and body moisturizer
  • Sunscreen SPF30+ and Lip balm SPF 30+
  • Hand sanitiser/Antiseptic wipes
  • Hygiene products
  • Basic first aid kit (Pepto Bismol, Cipro (500mg tablets), Metronidazole, Hydration salts, Eye drops, Azithromycin (250mg tablets), Diamox (250mg tablets, approx. 35 total), and variety of standard painkillers including Tylenol, Ibuprofen, etc)

Documents:

  • Passport with visa and validity of 6 months after your trip completion
  • Credit cards in case of emergencies
  • Driving ID or any other ID in case of loss of your passport
  • Travel Insurance
  • Flight tickets

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Reviews

Richard James Deathe Apr 05, 2016

From my first email with Passang to meeting him and his father in Kathmandu I’ve been nothing but impressed with the friendly yet professional manner he operates his business.
I can’t give any more praise than to say I’ve already looked at future trips with Highland Expeditions.



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