18 Days Everest Trek Via Gokyo Cho La Pass

  • Duration 19
  • Destination Nepal
  • Trip Grade Difficult
  • Starts at
  • Ends at
  • Meals Full Board Meal During Trek
  • Accommodation 3-star & Lodge Trek
  • Max. Altitude 5554m/18192ft
  • Activity Sightseeing & Trekking
  • Group Type
  • Group Size 1-15 pax
  • Best Season

18 Days Everest Trek Via Gokyo Cho La Pass Overview

Embark on the ultimate 18-day Everest Trek via Gokyo Cho La Pass, an exhilarating and highly challenging adventure that takes you through some of the most spectacular landscapes of the Everest region. This iconic journey, renowned for its series of beautiful turquoise lakes in the Gokyo Valley and the formidable Cho La Pass (5,330m / 17,487ft), promises a lifetime experience amidst the majestic Himalayas. Discover friendly Sherpa culture, vibrant monasteries, and reach the base of the mighty Everest on this unforgettable Nepal trekking expedition.

Everest Trek Via Gokyo Cho La Pass Overview: A Daring Khumbu Expedition

This Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes itinerary is meticulously crafted for adventurers seeking a more challenging route and a desire to “stay off the beaten path” while exploring remote Nepalese trails. It’s a unique Mountain trekking journey that navigates through the heart of the Khumbu region, offering unparalleled vistas from celebrated viewpoints like Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar.

Your trek will advance to the base of the world’s tallest mountain, mapping out spectacular panoramas and rewarding you with incredible views of the Khumbu Icefall. Witness the enthralling sights of Mount Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Pumori, and visit the revered Tengboche Monastery—the largest monastery in the Khumbu region of Nepal. This journey, especially designed as a unique package for adventure and entertainment in the post-COVID-19 era by Mountain Expedition Nepal (MEN), offers a fresh perspective on the classic Everest journey.

For novice trekkers in good health and average physical fitness, the Everest Base Camp Trek – 14 Days might be more suitable. Alternatively, if you’re an experienced trekker with limited time, the Everest Base Camp Short Trek – 10 Days could be a better option.

EBC via Gokyo Lake – Trip Highlights & Features:

  • Duration: 18 Days
  • Destination: Nepal (Everest Region, Gokyo Valley, Khumbu)
  • Trip Grade: Difficult (Requires excellent physical fitness and mental preparation)
  • Max. Altitude: Conquer Kala Patthar at 5,555m (18,225ft); ascend Gokyo Ri at 5,483m (18,005ft); cross Cho La Pass (5,330m).
  • Activity: Sightseeing, High-Altitude Trekking, Glacier Exploration, Panoramic Peak Views
  • Group Size: 1-15 participants (Customize your private trip on request)
  • Best Season: Autumn (Sept. to Nov.) and Spring (March to May)
  • Explore World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu: Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa.
  • Enjoy an early morning scenic flight to and from Lukla.
  • Connect with the mountain people and experience life in the heart of the Himalayas.
  • Discover the beautiful Gokyo Valley and its pristine turquoise lakes.
  • Witness the flabbergasting views of the Khumbu Icefall.
  • Reach Everest Base Camp and walk on the iconic Khumbu Glacier.
  • Visit the revered Tengboche Monastery.

Accommodation & Meals: Comfort in the High Himalayas

We will provide comfortable accommodation in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu and traditional tea houses / lodges during the trek. All accommodations are based on a twin-shared basis. A single room will be available upon request for an additional charge. While Himalayan Adventure Nepal strives to organize rooms with private bathrooms and all facilities where possible, tea houses in some higher elevations may have shared washing and toilet facilities. Single rooms are generally easy to find in Kathmandu and lower trekking trails but can be difficult at higher altitudes.

For Meals, all standard meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) are provided during the trekking days. In Kathmandu, only breakfast is served, but a special welcome and farewell dinner are included. Our menus offer a mix of authentic Nepalese cuisine and popular international dishes (Tibetan, Continental, Italian, Indian, etc.), ensuring diverse and satisfying meal options.

Can I Be a Good Trekker? Fitness & Preparation

The Everest Trek via Gokyo Lake is a difficult and highly demanding trek. It is suitable for passionate walkers who have the ability to walk at least 5-6 hours a day with a light rucksack. Trekkers need to be prepared physically and mentally, as some days may require walking 8 to 9 hours, especially when crossing the high pass. Walking at higher altitudes is significantly more physically demanding than at lower elevations; however, with good health, average physical fitness, a positive attitude, self-confidence, and strong determination, this trek is achievable, creating lifetime experiences.

We highly recommend starting a regular jogging and intensive exercising regimen for at least a month prior to embarking on the trek to enhance your strength and stability. While past hiking experience is preferred, no specific technical climbing skills are required. It is crucial to consult with your doctor before booking this trek. Participants with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung, or blood diseases should inform Himalayan Adventure Nepal prior to booking.

Best Season to Travel:

We offer daily departures for the Everest Trek Via Gokyo Cho La Pass from March to May and from mid-September to mid-December. These periods offer stable weather, clear skies, and optimal conditions for high-altitude trekking and spectacular mountain views.

Day to Day Itinerary
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Our airport representative will be receiving you at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu and s/he will be displaying our signboard outside the airport terminal. You will be then transferred to your respective hotel in our private tourist vehicle.   Note: If you happen to arrive after 4 pm you would be briefed about the trip by our guide, this will be the pre-trip meeting for you, so please make sure that you ask all the questions. However, if you arrive earlier than 4 pm, your pre-trip meeting would be on that very day at our office. We will have introduction with your trek leader/guide. For the meeting, please make sure you bring the passport, three copies of passport-size photos and a readable copy of your travel insurance policy.  We expect that you will pay due balance during the meeting, if any, and sign the legally binding trip form as well as the non-liability disclaimer. Overnight at a hotel. No meals included.

We will offer your adventurous breakfast at 8.30 am your sightseeing trip will start. For your support, we will give you private vehicle and a professional tour guide. The faces of the Kathmandu will be your highlighted place for today   as you will visit some heritages listed below: Pashupatinath Temple: Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most significant Hindu temples of Lord Shiva in the world, located on the banks of the Bagmati River. Though you are not allowed to go inside the temple as it is strictly for Hindus only, you can clearly see the temple and the activities from the eastern bank of the Bagmati River. It is a square two-tiered pagoda temple built on a single-tier plinth which is famous all over the world. Boudhanath Stupa: Boudhananath is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Kathmandu. It was built in the 5th century with four pairs of eyes of Lord Buddha in four cardinal directions keeping an eternal watch over the people and their doings. You will find Buddhist pilgrims from Tibet going round the stupa spinning the prayer wheels.Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Visit the Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the Royal Residential Quarter of Bhupatindra Malla, famous five-storied temple of Nyatapola in Pagoda style Batsala temple, Bhairavnath temple, Duttatraya temple, Pujari Muth and Palace of 55 windows. The rest of our time in Kathmandu is free for further exploration and some last minute shopping in Thamel area for trekking essentials. Overnight at a hotel. Breakfast included.

An early morning start takes us to the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu for the 35-minute scenic flight to Tenzing and Hillary Airport at Lukla (2,804 m). On arrival at the airport, the guide will brief you and introduce our porters before we begin our trek towards Phakding (2,610 m). After landing, we have time to explore the village while our Sherpa crew sort and load our trekking equipment. Then we begin our trek by descending towards the Dudh Kosi River where we join the main trail to Namche Bazaar, located just above Chaunrikharka (2,713 m). The walking is easy. After passing through the small village of Ghat (2,550 m), it is a short walk to Phakding. Overnight at a guesthouse. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

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 of 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. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

There are plenty of things to do around Namche Bazaar, and we can spend a day here acclimatizing. Namche Bazaar is the main centre 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.We will spend a day in Namche Bazaar in order to acclimatize and adjust to the thinning air. We will trek a short distance to a museum that is celebrated for its exhibits of the traditional customs of the Sherpa people. We will also hike up the Syangboche Airport and the Everest View Hotel, one of the highest-placed hotels in the world. From this point, we can see rewarding views of the Himalayas including Mt Everest. Overnight at a guesthouse. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

We climb the Khumjung hill and descend to the east of the village down the broad valley leading to the Dudh Koshi from where the route turns north. There are two trails and our guide will choose the best option for us to follow. There is a chorten on the ridge top at 3973 m which descends from Mt. Khumbila (5761 m). We visit Mohang, the birthplace of the re-incarnated Lama of Rongbuk Monastery of Tibet who is believed to have introduced Buddhism in the Khumbu region of Nepal. The trail descends in a series of steep switchbacks down a sandy slope to the Dush Koshi. We stay overnight in Phortse Tanga, near the river. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

From Phortse Thanga it is an uphill climb to Machhermo. We walk on a trail alongside a rhododendron forest and pass through a waterfall before reaching Tongba Village. We continue our uphill trek and pass through Dhole, Labarma and Luza villages before reaching Machhermo. There is a Chhorten right before the Luza village. Throughout today’s journey, we will be walking alongside the Dudh Koshi River. Overnight in Machhermo. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

We begin today by climbing a ridge for an excellent view down the valley to Kangtaiga and also up towards Cho Oyu (8153 m). The valley now widens as the trail passes through Phangkha, where an avalanche in 1995 killed 40 people. We then descend to the riverbank before climbing onto the terminal moraine of the Ngazumpa Glacier on a steep trail. Upon crossing an iron bridge over a stream, the trail levels out as it follows the valley past the first lake, known as Longpongo, at 4690 m. At this juncture, we get a chance to observe lama footprints on a stone. At the sight of the second lake, Taboche Tsho, we become mesmerized by the shimmering turquoise blue sheet of water sparkling in the sun. Little ahead of the second lake, we reach the third lake, the two linked by a surging stream. Gokyo village stands by the third lake and Cho-Oyu Mountain as a backdrop sets an amazing spectacular sight here. After lunch, we explore around the third lake, Dudh Pokhari. Overnight in Gokyo. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

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. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

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 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. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

We start walking before sunrise at 4:00 or 5:00 am to reach the pass by 9:00 am – 10:00 am and dodge bad weather conditions of the noontime. We cross over at an altitude of 5,300 m where we could be exposed to strong winds if we crossing too late. We start to climb steeply the trail that is regularly used and easy to follow. However, the problem may arise due to the altitude and snow. It often causes terrible problems to cross the pass if it is covered by snow. As you reach the top, you are rewarded by the magnificent views, then we descend to the Dzongla at noon. Accommodation in Dzongla will be very basic and in dormitory-style room because of its remoteness. Overnight at a guesthouse. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

A rather easier and shorter trekking route will take us to Lobuche after 4 hours of trekking. Overnight at a guesthouse. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

This is a big and difficult day walk along the Khumbu Glacier and up to Everest Base Camp at 5,365 m, the closest you can get to Mt. Everest without mountaineering equipment. During spring, there will likely be expedition teams about to attempt the summit. The view of the Khumbu Icefall from Base Camp is spectacular. We return back to Gorak Shep for the night. Overnight at a guesthouse. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

We prepare for an early morning departure, amid pre-dawn darkness and cold temperatures (-10 to -14 C). In addition, 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. However, 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 to Lobuche for a good night’s rest. Those participants who will visit Everest Base Camp today will have an early breakfast to start early, as Everest base camp hike takes longer than the hike at Kala Patthar. After returning to Gorak Shep, both the groups will have lunch together; the afternoon is taken to descend down to Pheriche for a good night’s rest. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

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. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

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.

To collect the lifetime adventurous please enjoying the last glimpse of the mountains, we have recently visited, the 35 minutes scenic flight takes us back to Kathmandu. On arrival in Kathmandu, we are met and transferred back to our starting hotel. If you are interested in extending the trip, there are many options such as Chitwan jungle safari, river rafting adventure, Kathmandu shopping tour, mountain biking and other activities. Overnight at a hotel. Breakfast included.

It’s also spare day in case of bad weather in Lukla. In the evening, we will have a farewell dinner in a traditional Nepalese restaurant with cultural performances. Overnight at a hotel. Breakfast and farewell dinner included.

The adventurous trip conducted by HAN will conclude – our airport representative will drop you to Kathmandu’s Tribhuwan International Airport for your flight departure from Nepal.

Our team guides, porters and accompanying staff are locals with a broad knowledge about each and every location that we travel through.

Customize Trip
Cost Includes
  • Standard twin-sharing accommodation in a three-star hotel in Kathmandu including breakfast (3 nights).
  • Guesthouse accommodation during the trek in mostly twin-share and occasionally dormitory-style rooms (14 nights).
  • All standard meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner).
  • Local English-speaking trekking guide having licensed. An experienced, English-speaking and government-licensed trek leader and assistant trek leader (4 trekkers: 1 assistant guide)
  • The required number of local staff and porters to carry your luggage during the trek. Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment and medicine for all staff.
  • National Park permits and TIMS permit for trekking.
  • Free T shirt, bag and Hat.
  • Official expenses.
  • Welcome dinner with cultural program as listed in the itinerary.
  • Day guided city tour
  • All Domestic flights and airport tax as listed in the itinerary.
  • Private transportation to and from the starting and ending points of the trek as applicable
  • Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
  • All government and local taxes
Cost Excludes
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu. Depending on your budget, it may cost about USD 15 to USD 20 per person.
  • Travel Insurance (compulsory!), which covers emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation
  • International airfare and airport departure tax
  • Nepal entry visa – You can obtain the visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu (Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 15 days can be obtained by paying USD 25 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 30 days and 90 days can be obtained by paying USD 40 and 100 respectively. Please bring 2 copies of passport size photos.)
  • Alcoholic, hot and cold drinks.
  • Personal trekking equipment (click on the Equipment tab).
  • Tips for trekking staff and driver (tipping is expected).
  • Any others expenses that are not mentioned in the ‘Price Includes’ section.
  • Any extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary plan
  • Cost arising out of landslides, road blockade, and rescue of any form, cancellation of flight or reasons beyond our control
  • World heritage entrance Fees.
Departure Dates
  • We have daily departures for this trip from March to May and from mid-September to mid-December. You can type in the number of passengers to book a reservation and select a date that is convenient for you. Due to group size, we never cancel a trip once you’ve made a reservation. If you would rather join the group, we will add more travelers on the selected date. You can let us know once you make a reservation or earlier.
Useful Info

EMEN has provided all the information on its website. If you have any confusion please call us or email us anytime .we wish your happiness. Your happiness is our success. We are here in Nepal for the adventure and lifetime experiences .

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