Excellent 4.7 out of 5
18-Day Gokyo + EBC via Cho La
This is the ultimate Himalayan odyssey, combining the serene Gokyo Lakes with the legendary Everest Base Camp in a single, epic journey. Cross the challenging Cho La Pass, summit both Gokyo Ri and Kala Patthar, and stand at the foot of the world's highest peak on this comprehensive grand circuit.See More
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The Ultimate Himalayan Odyssey
This is the ultimate Himalayan odyssey. By combining the serene Gokyo Lakes with the legendary Everest Base Camp, you experience the very best of the Khumbu region in a single, epic journey.
Best for
Adventurers
Max Altitude
5,545 m
Pace
Demanding
The Pass
Cho La 5,420m
Trek Highlights
Cross the dramatic glaciated Cho La Pass (5,420m)
Stand at iconic Everest Base Camp (5,364m)
Sunrise at Kala Patthar (5,545m) for world's best Everest view
Summit Gokyo Ri (5,357m) and explore sacred lakes
Two 8000m summits (Kala Patthar & Gokyo Ri viewpoints)
Cross the massive Ngozumpa Glacier
Cultural immersion in Sherpa capital Namche Bazaar
Visit Tengboche Monastery with its spiritual vibe
Full Khumbu Grand Circuit experience
Trek Route Map
Why Book With Us?
Technical Expertise
Our guides are trained for safe technical crossings of high passes like Cho La.
Maximum Safety
Extra rest days and oxygen saturation monitoring on high altitude push days.
Expert Sherpa Crews
Local crews born in these high valleys with decades of mountaineering experience.
Real-time Support
Satellite communication and 24/7 Kathmandu office monitoring for every group.
Included Prep Kit
Full briefings and gear checks in KTM to ensure you are 100% ready.
Private Transfers
Airport and local logistics managed with private vehicles and expert timing.
Day-by-Day Trek Plan
Altitude Graph
Strenuous — For Experienced Trekkers
This 18-day route combines the Gokyo Lakes, the glaciated Cho La Pass (5,420m), Everest Base Camp, and Kala Patthar — making it the most comprehensive and physically demanding itinerary we offer. Prior high-altitude trekking experience is strongly recommended.
Fly to Lukla, Trek to Phakding
Scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, then a gentle descent along the Dudh Koshi river to Phakding village.
Highlights
- • Lukla Flight
- • River Walk
- • Sherpa Villages
Phakding to Namche Bazaar
Acclimatization in Namche Bazaar
Namche to Phortse Thanga
Phortse Thanga to Machhermo
Machhermo to Gokyo Village
Gokyo Ri Sunrise & Lake Exploration
Rest & Acclimatization at Gokyo
Gokyo to Thangnak (via Ngozumpa Glacier)
Cho La Pass Crossing to Dzongla
Dzongla to Lobuche
Everest Base Camp via Gorak Shep
Kala Patthar Summit & Trek to Pheriche
Pheriche to Namche Bazaar
Rest Day in Namche Bazaar
Namche to Lukla
Fly back to Kathmandu
Buffer Day / Departure
What's Included
- Professional Guide
- Shared Porter Service
- All Teahouse Accommodation
- Lukla Flight Tickets
- NP Entry Permits
- Pass Equipment Info
- All Meals (B+L+D)
Service Details
What's Included
- Licensed Professional Trekking Guide
- Shared Porter Service (2 trekkers : 1 porter)
- All Teahouse / Lodge Accommodation
- Khumbu & Sagarmatha National Park Permits
- Kathmandu to Lukla Round-trip Flights
- Airport Transfers in Kathmandu
- Comprehensive First Aid Medical Kit
What's Excluded
- International Airfare & Airport Taxes
- Nepal Entry Visa Fees
- Comprehensive Travel & Rescue Insurance
- Personal Trekking Equipment (Boots, Poles, etc.)
- Hot Showers, WiFi & Battery Charging Fees
- Alcoholic & Soft Drinks / Bottled Water
- Tips and Gratuities for Guide & Porters
Packing List
Daily Wear
- Layered Clothing: Lightweight base layers
- Trekking Pants: Quick-drying
- Shirts: Long and short sleeve
- Warm Hat & Gloves
- Sturdy Hiking Boots (Waterproof)
- Scarf/Buff
Technical Gear
- Daypack (30-40L)
- Trekking Poles
- Sleeping Bag (-20°C recommended)
- Water Bottle (Reusable/Insulated)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Power Bank
Hygiene & Safety
- Sunscreen (High SPF)
- Lip Balm with SPF
- Biodegradable Soap/Toiletries
- First Aid Kit (Blister care, etc.)
- Insect Repellent
Read Before You Book
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before you hit the trail
Yes, most teahouses offer WiFi (via AirLink or EverestLink cards) and charging stations for a small fee ($3-$7). Note that reliability decreases as you go higher.
Common Questions
Q: Why choose Gokyo over Everest Base Camp?
Gokyo offers superior panoramic views (4 of the 14 highest peaks), pristine turquoise lakes, and significantly fewer crowds than the main EBC highway, providing a more serene and authentic experience.
Q: What fitness level is required for trekking in Nepal?
A moderate to high level of fitness is required. You should be comfortable walking 5-7 hours a day with a light pack. Cardiovascular training and leg strength are key preparations.
Q: What happens if I get altitude sickness?
Our guides are trained to spot early AMS symptoms. The primary protocol is to stop ascending, hydrate, and if symptoms worsen, descend immediately. Helicopter evacuation is available for emergencies.
Booking
Q: How far in advance should I book my trek?
We recommend booking 3-6 months in advance, especially for peak seasons (Spring and Autumn), to ensure flight availability to Lukla and the best teahouse accommodations.
Q: What is your cancellation and refund policy?
We offer a full refund for cancellations made 30 days prior to departure. Cancellations within 14 days are subject to a 50% fee. We recommend travel insurance to cover unexpected cancellations.
Preparation
Q: Is there WiFi and electricity on the trail?
Yes, most teahouses offer WiFi (via AirLink or EverestLink cards) and charging stations for a small fee ($3-$7). Note that reliability decreases as you go higher.
Q: How much extra cash should I bring?
We recommend $25-$40 USD per day for personal expenses like snacks, hot showers, charging, WiFi, and tips for your crew.
Safety
Q: Does my insurance need to cover helicopter rescue?
Yes, it is mandatory. Your insurance must specifically cover trekking up to 6,000m and include emergency helicopter evacuation.
Q: Is the water safe to drink?
We do not recommend drinking tap or stream water. Use water purification tablets, filters, or purchase boiled water at teahouses to stay safe.
Permits
Q: What specific permits are required for Gokyo?
You need the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit and the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit. We handle all paperwork for our trekkers.
Q: Do I need a guide for this trek?
As of 2023, the Nepal government has made it mandatory for solo trekkers to hire a licensed guide in the Everest region for safety and environmental protection.
Q: What is the luggage limit for the Lukla flight?
The weight limit is 15kg total per person (10kg for checked bag, 5kg for hand carry). Extra weight can be paid for but is not guaranteed to fly on the same plane.
Need a custom itinerary?
We can design a trip tailored specifically to your needs, fitness level, and schedule. It only takes 2 minutes to start.