Detail Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you’ll be warmly greeted and welcomed by our team representative. After completing the necessary immigration and customs formalities, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. This bustling city is the capital of Nepal and a vibrant blend of ancient traditions and modern influences. Depending on your arrival time, you may have some leisure time to explore the local surroundings, visit nearby markets, or simply relax at your hotel.
Day 02: Kathmandu – Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Today is dedicated to exploring the cultural and historical wonders of Kathmandu, a city that boasts seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. After enjoying a delicious breakfast at your hotel, you’ll embark on a guided sightseeing tour that will take you to some of Kathmandu’s most iconic landmarks. You’ll visit Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, which offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. You’ll then proceed to Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site on the banks of the Bagmati River. Afterward, you’ll visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in Asia, and explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu Durbar Square, which is rich in history and architectural marvels. In the afternoon, you’ll have a trek briefing and equipment check to ensure that you are well-prepared for the upcoming adventure. You can also use this time to purchase any trekking gear or souvenirs you may need.
Day 03: Fly to Lukla, Trek to Phakding (2,800m/9,187ft)
After an early morning breakfast in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your scenic flight to Lukla. This flight is an adventure in itself, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks as you approach the Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla, one of the most challenging airports in the world due to its short runway and location in a rugged terrain. Upon landing in Lukla, you’ll meet your trekking crew and set off on your trek to Phakding, a picturesque village situated along the Dudh Koshi River. The trek is relatively easy and provides a gentle introduction to the beautiful landscapes of the Khumbu region. You’ll pass through charming Sherpa villages, prayer wheels, and colorful prayer flags as you make your way to Phakding, where you’ll spend your first night in the Everest region.
Day 04: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,438m/11,280ft)
Today, your trek continues as you cross several suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River and follow the trail that leads to Namche Bazaar. Along the way, you’ll catch your first glimpses of the towering peaks of the Khumbu region, including Thamserku (6,623m) and Kangtega (6,782m). As you gain elevation, the lush forests of pine and rhododendrons gradually give way to alpine terrain. After a challenging climb, you’ll reach Namche Bazaar, the largest town in the Khumbu region and a major trading hub. This bustling town is perched on the mountainside and offers stunning views of Everest and Lhotse. It’s an ideal place for acclimatization, and you’ll spend the night here.
Day 05: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar (3,438m/11,280ft)
To aid in your acclimatization to the increasing altitude, you’ll spend a rest day in Namche Bazaar. Acclimatization is a crucial aspect of high-altitude trekking to minimize the risk of altitude sickness. During your day in Namche, you have various options for exploration. You can visit the local markets, where you’ll find a fascinating array of traditional goods, from yak wool blankets to intricate handicrafts. Additionally, you can hike to the nearby Everest View Hotel, one of the highest-altitude luxury hotels in the world, to enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. This leisurely day allows your body to adjust to the reduced oxygen levels at higher altitudes.
Day 06: Namche Bazaar to Phortse Thanga (3,680m/12,074ft)
Leaving the vibrant town of Namche Bazaar behind, you’ll continue your trek along the Everest Base Camp trail. Today’s destination is Phortse Thanga, a small and tranquil village tucked away in the mountains. The trail offers stunning vistas of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kangtega as you follow the Dudh Koshi River upstream. You’ll pass through lush forests of rhododendron, pine, and juniper, and may even spot some Himalayan wildlife along the way. Phortse Thanga is known for its serene ambiance and is an ideal spot to enjoy the peace and quiet of the Himalayas.
Day 07: Phortse Thanga to Machhermo (4,470m/14,666ft)
Today’s trek takes you to the village of Machhermo, situated at an altitude of 4,470 meters. As you ascend further into the Gokyo Valley, the landscapes become more rugged and barren. The trail provides opportunities to see the Himalayan tahr, a large mountain goat, as well as other alpine wildlife. The village of Machhermo is known for its yak pastures and stunning views of the surrounding peaks. You’ll spend the night here, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Himalayas.
Day 08: Machhermo to Gokyo (4,800m/15,749ft)
Continuing your journey through the Gokyo Valley, you’ll trek to the village of Gokyo. This high-altitude settlement is located at an impressive elevation of 4,800 meters. Along the way, you’ll pass by pristine glacial lakes and traverse moraine formations left by ancient glaciers. Gokyo is famous for its turquoise glacial lakes, and you’ll have the opportunity to explore these natural wonders upon your arrival. The village is surrounded by some of the world’s highest peaks, including Cho Oyu and Gyachung Kang, creating a stunning backdrop for your stay.
Day 09: Gokyo Valley – Acclimatization Day (Optional Hike to Gokyo Ri – 5,357m/17,576ft)
Today is a scheduled acclimatization day in the Gokyo Valley, which is essential for your overall well-being and safety at high altitudes. You can use this day to rest, hydrate, and allow your body to adjust to the thinner air. For those seeking additional adventure, there is an optional hike to Gokyo Ri, a nearby viewpoint that stands at an elevation of 5,357 meters. The hike offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. The sight of the glacial lakes and the Ngozumpa Glacier from this vantage point is simply mesmerizing. Whether you choose to rest or embark on the hike, the day is yours to enjoy the beauty of Gokyo.
Day 10: Gokyo to Thagnak (4,750m/15,585ft)
Leaving Gokyo behind, you’ll continue your journey to Thagnak, a small settlement nestled in the mountains. The trail takes you alongside the stunning Ngozumpa Glacier, which is the longest glacier in the Himalayas. You’ll be surrounded by awe-inspiring ice formations and towering peaks as you make your way to Thagnak. This remote location is a perfect place to experience the tranquility and rugged beauty of the high Himalayas.
Day 11: Thagnak to Cho La Pass to Dzongla (5,420m/17,783ft)
Today presents a challenging and adventurous trekking day as you cross the formidable Cho La Pass. The pass is known for its technical sections, including steep ascents and descents, and requires careful navigation. The terrain is rocky and icy, and you’ll need to use crampons and ice axes in some sections, making it an exhilarating experience for adventurous trekkers. After successfully crossing the pass, you’ll descend into Dzongla, a village perched high in the mountains. This remote location offers a unique perspective of the Everest region and is an excellent place to spend the night.
Day 12: Dzongla to Lobuche (4,940m/16,208ft)
Today’s trek is relatively shorter in duration as you make your way to Lobuche, a village located near the Khumbu Glacier. The trail offers fantastic views of the surrounding peaks, and you’ll be able to appreciate the dramatic landscapes of the Everest region. Upon reaching Lobuche, you’ll have some free time to relax and prepare for your visit to Everest Base Camp the following day.
Day 13: Lobuche to Gorak Shep, Visit Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,599ft)
An exciting and highly anticipated day awaits as you trek to Gorak Shep and continue on to Everest Base Camp. The trail takes you along the moraine of the Khumbu Glacier, and you’ll have the opportunity to visit the base camp that serves as a launching point for climbers attempting to summit Mount Everest. You’ll witness the colorful tents of expedition teams and have a sense of the challenging journey they undertake. While you won’t see the summit of Everest from Base Camp, the experience of being at the world’s highest mountain base camp is incredibly rewarding. After exploring the area and soaking in the atmosphere, you’ll return to Gorak Shep for a well-deserved night’s rest.
Day 14: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar to Pheriche (5,545m/18,193ft)
Today starts early with a pre-dawn hike to Kala Patthar, one of the best vantage points in the Everest region to witness the sunrise over Mount Everest. The hike is challenging due to the high altitude, but the breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and the Khumbu Glacier make it all worthwhile. As the sun’s first rays illuminate the peaks, you’ll capture some unforgettable photographs and memories. After descending from Kala Patthar, you’ll continue your trek to Pheriche, a lower-altitude village where you can breathe in more oxygen-rich air and enjoy a more comfortable night’s sleep.
Day 15: Pheriche to Namche Bazaar (3,438m/11,280ft)
Leaving Pheriche, you’ll retrace your steps along the Everest Base Camp trail, gradually descending in altitude as you make your way back to Namche Bazaar. The downhill trek offers a chance to appreciate the changing landscapes and lush vegetation as you re-enter the lower valleys. Upon reaching Namche, you’ll have a sense of accomplishment and will be reunited with familiar surroundings.
Day 16: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,800m/9,187ft)
Today marks your final full day of trekking as you continue your descent to Lukla. The trail takes you through charming villages, rhododendron forests, and across suspension bridges. It’s a day filled with reflections on the incredible journey you’ve undertaken, and you’ll have a sense of satisfaction as you approach Lukla, where it all began. You’ll bid farewell to your local trekking crew and prepare for your return flight to Kathmandu.
Day 17: Fly to Kathmandu (1,350m/4,429ft)
In the morning, you’ll board a scenic flight from Lukla to Kathmandu, retracing your aerial route over the stunning Himalayan landscapes. Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can rest and freshen up after the trek. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax, explore Kathmandu further, do some last-minute shopping, or simply unwind at your hotel.
Day 18: Final Departure
Your incredible Everest Base Camp trek via Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass comes to an end today. After enjoying your final breakfast in Kathmandu, our team will arrange for your airport transfer based on your departure schedule. You can depart from the Tribhuvan International Airport with a sense of achievement and a treasure trove of memories from this extraordinary adventure in the Himalayas.
