Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass

After breakfast, begin your exploration at the ancient Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), enjoying panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley. Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kathmandu Durbar Square, where you'll see historic temples and the old royal palace. After lunch (included), proceed to Patan Durbar Square, renowned for its exquisite Newari architecture and golden temples. He fading light guides you back to your hotel, where the day's stories can settle into quiet reflection.

Swayambhunath: Atop a hill, Swayambhunath Stupa, affectionately called the Monkey Temple, is one of Nepal’s oldest spiritual landmarks. Its iconic white dome, adorned with the all-seeing Buddha eyes, watches over Kathmandu. Pilgrims and tourists like to circle the stupa, spinning prayer wheels amid chattering monkeys and the scent of butter lamps. Recognized by UNESCO not just for its architecture, but as a place where Buddhist practice flourishes as it has for millennia.

Kathmandu Durbar Square: Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO-listed open-air museum, pulses with history. The Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Kumari Ghar (home to the living goddess), and the fearsome Kal Bhairav statue reveal Newar craftsmanship at its zenith. Every carved window and cobblestone whispers tales of Malla kings, their courtyards still echoing with temple bells and festival drums.

Patan Durbar Square: "Lalitpur's durbar square" is a jewelry box of Newar artistry - each temple a symphony in brick and gilt copper. The 17th-century Krishna Mandir's stone friezes depict epic battles frozen mid-swing, while the Golden Temple's courtyard hides a sacred turtle pond. Here, master craftsmen still tap delicate repoussé patterns into metal as their ancestors did six centuries ago.

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Your Himalayan journey begins with an unforgettable 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, where you'll soar past terraced hillsides and catch your first glimpses of snow-capped peaks. Landing at Tenzing-Hillary Airport, the adventure truly starts as you descend through fragrant rhododendron and pine forests, following the turquoise Dudh Koshi River. This gentle 3-4 hour trek (9km) introduces you to the rhythm of mountain travel, crossing swaying suspension bridges adorned with prayer flags.

Arriving in Phakding (2,651m), you'll settle into a cozy teahouse surrounded by the tranquil sounds of the river. This peaceful village offers your first night on the trail, where crisp mountain air and warm Sherpa hospitality prepare you for tomorrow's climb to Namche Bazaar. Take time to rest, hydrate, and soak in the stunning views that hint at the greater adventures ahead.

Flight: 40 min

Hiking: 3-4 hrs.

Simple Lodge

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The trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) is a rewarding challenge through the heart of Khumbu. Following the Dudh Koshi River, you'll cross thrilling suspension bridges draped with prayer flags, surrounded by lush forests and occasional mountain views. The trail gradually ascends, with some steep sections testing your endurance before entering Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO-listed sanctuary of biodiversity and breathtaking Himalayan panoramas.

Arriving in vibrant Namche Bazaar, you'll discover a bustling Sherpa town filled with colorful markets, cozy cafes, and gear shops. This commercial hub serves as your first major acclimatization stop, where you'll spend two nights adjusting to the altitude. The lively atmosphere and stunning mountain backdrop make it the perfect place to rest and prepare for higher adventures.

Hiking: 5-6 hrs.

Travel Distance: 11 km

Simple Lodge

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Today, focus on letting your body adjust to the altitude while taking in the sights of this lively Sherpa town.. Visit the fascinating Sherpa Museum to learn about local culture and mountaineering history, or take a short hike to the picturesque villages of Khumjung and Khunde, where you'll visit the historic Hillary School. For spectacular mountain views, trek up to the famous Everest View Hotel (3,880m), which offers unparalleled panoramas of Everest, Ama Dablam, and other Himalayan giants.

While enjoying these activities, remember to stay hydrated and move at a relaxed pace. This acclimatization day is crucial for your health and safety at higher altitudes. Take time to rest, soak in the stunning scenery, and prepare for the next stage of your adventure. The combination of gentle exploration and proper rest will ensure you're ready to continue your trek tomorrow.

Simple Lodge

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Leaving Namche's bustling streets, the trail drops sharply through fragrant rhododendron forests, the Dudh Koshi's roar growing louder with each switchback. Suspension bridges sway beneath your boots, offering heart-pounding views of Thamserku's razor-edged peak. As you descend, Ama Dablam appears like a jeweled sentinel, its icy flanks glowing in the morning light. The path winds past stone-walled Sherpa homesteads where yak bells chime and children play. By afternoon, you'll reach Phortse Thanga (3,680m), a quiet riverside hamlet where the mountains seem close enough to touch. Here, the only sounds are the river's song and the occasional whistle of Himalayan wind – a perfect sanctuary before tomorrow's climb toward higher horizons.

Hiking: 5-6 hrs.

Travel Distance: 6 km

Simple Lodge

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The morning sun greets us as we leave Phortse Thanga, the trail climbing steadily through rhododendron forests alive with birdsong. Crossing crystal-clear streams fed by glacial melt, we emerge into open yak pastures where bells echo across the valley. The air grows thinner as we pass traditional Sherpa homes, their stone walls standing strong against the mountain winds.

By midday, Machhermo (4,470m) appears like a mirage - a cluster of teahouses nestled beneath towering peaks. This peaceful haven offers our first true taste of high-altitude life, with the majestic Cho Oyu glacier glinting in the distance. After settling in, we visit the village gompa, its prayer flags snapping in the crisp air, before resting as the sunset paints the snowfields pink. Tomorrow, the turquoise Gokyo Lakes await, but tonight we sleep wrapped in the Himalayas' silent embrace.

Hiking: 4-5 hrs.

Travel Distance: 10 km

Simple Lodge

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First light in Machhermo brings nourishing tsampa porridge before we ascend toward Gokyo (4,800m). The winding trail reveals ever-expanding views of the Ngozumpa Glacier's fractured ice. Suddenly, the first Gokyo Lake emerges—its dazzling turquoise a shock of color against the stark Himalayan landscape, taking our breath away more than the thin air ever could.

Yak caravans yield the right of way as we navigate the final ascent, our boots crunching on ancient glacial debris. Arriving in Gokyo village, the air hums with thin-altitude energy. We secure lodging by the shore of the third lake, where sunset transforms the water into liquid gold beneath Cho Oyu's towering face. Tomorrow, we conquer Gokyo Ri, but tonight we sip butter tea, watching the Milky Way spill across the frozen peaks.

Hiking: 4-5 hrs.

Travel Distance: 7 km

Simple Lodge

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Before first light, we begin our silent ascent of Gokyo Ri (5,357m), headlamps bobbing in the darkness like fireflies. The thin air burns our lungs as we scramble up the final scree slope, arriving breathless at the summit just as dawn ignites the Himalayan giants – Everest's black pyramid, Cho Oyu's frozen waves, and Makalu's razor edge glowing crimson above a sea of clouds. He Gokyo Lakes glimmer below like sapphires spilled across the valley floor.

We descend carefully to Gokyo village (4,790m), where the remainder of the day unfolds in slow motion. Some wander to the lakeshore, skipping stones across jewel-toned waters. Others doze in sunlit lodge windows, their dreams still filled with summit vistas. As evening falls, we share thermoses of ginger tea, our voices hushed – not from altitude, but from the overwhelming beauty we've witnessed today.

Hiking: 3-4 hrs.

Travel Distance: 2 km

Simple Lodge

B

The crunch of glacial gravel underfoot marks our departure from Gokyo as we trace the Ngozumpa Glacier's frozen waves. Each step reveals new perspectives of the turquoise lakes below, their colors shifting from mint to cobalt as clouds dance across Cho Oyu's icy face. The trail weaves through a geological wonderland - house-sized boulders balanced precariously, ice caves exhaling cold breath, and moraines striped like tiger stone.

At 4,700m, Thagnak emerges like a lunar outpost, its stone lodges huddled against the wind. We sip salted butter tea while watching sunlight skate across Everest's northeast ridge. The mountains whisper promises as we steel ourselves for Cho La's challenge at dawn. Tonight, we sleep surrounded by glacier music - the creak and pop of ancient ice adjusting to the night's embrace.

Hiking: 4-5 hrs.

Travel Distance: 4 km

Simple Lodge

B

We depart Thagnak before dawn, headlamps cutting through the freezing air as we begin our ascent of Cho La Pass (5,420m). The trail transforms from gravel to glacial ice, crampons biting into the frozen surface while our breath comes in ragged clouds. Near the summit, prayer flags snap violently in the jet stream, their colors framing a heart-stopping vista: Ama Dablam's elegant ridges, Cholatse's black fangs, and the distant plume of Everest's summit snow.

The descent to Dzongla (4,830m) tests weary knees with its treacherous scree slopes. Arriving in this cliffside hamlet, we collapse onto sun-warmed lodge benches, nursing steaming mugs of sea buckthorn tea as the last light gilds Lobuche’s summit. Tonight, we sleep with the satisfaction of mountaineers, having crossed one of the Himalaya's great thresholds.

Hiking: 7-8 hrs.

Travel Distance: 7 km

Simple Lodge

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The morning sun reveals our path through a shattered landscape of glacial debris and turquoise meltwater pools. We descend into a silent valley where the only sound is crunching gravel underfoot, then climb past stone memorials that stand like sentinels - each carved name whispering stories of Everest's fallen. The air grows thinner as we ascend toward Lobuche (4,910m), where the view explodes with Nuptse’s towering wall.

At the village, yak dung fires scent the air as we huddle in the lodge dining room. Outside, the last light paints the Khumbu Glacier pink while climbers compare route notes. Tonight, beneath the clearest stars yet, we sleep just hours from Base Camp, lulled by the distant rumble of avalanches on Pumori’s slopes.

Hiking: 2-3 hrs.

Travel Distance: 6 km

Simple Lodge

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Lobuche finds us already moving, crunching across the frozen Khumbu moraine where every breath hangs crystallized in the air. The trail to Gorak Shep (5,164m) winds through a Martian landscape - rust-colored boulders, ice sculptures shaped by relentless winds, and sudden glimpses of Everest's black pyramid between Nuptse's towering walls.

At Gorak Shep, we gulp down steaming garlic soup before the final push. The path to Base Camp weaves through the Khumbu Glacier's frozen chaos, past neon tents of spring expeditions and ice pinnacles that glow blue from within. Suddenly, we're there, standing on stones worn smoothly by countless crampons, surrounded by prayer flags snapping like celebratory firecrackers. As the afternoon light softens, we trace our steps back, our eyes forever marked by the Icefall's terrifying beauty. Tonight, we sleep at the highest teahouse on Earth, our dreams filled with the mountain's whispers.

Hiking: 6-7 hrs.

Travel Distance: 13 km

Simple Lodge

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Your pre-dawn climb from Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar (5,545m) rewards early risers with a breathtaking Himalayan sunrise. The steep, oxygen-thin trail tests your endurance, but the 360-degree panorama of Everest’s south face, Nuptse’s razor ridge, and Lhotse’s towering wall makes every labored step worthwhile. Spend sacred moments at the summit, watching alpenglow ignite the snowcaps before descending through the Khumbu’s stark beauty.

 The journey continues downhill past Lobuche's memorial stupas to Pheriche (4,240m), where cozy teahouses await. This peaceful Sherpa village offers well-earned rest with front-row mountain views. As night falls over the Imja Valley, swap stories with fellow trekkers over steaming dal bhat, reflecting on your conquest of Everest’s finest viewpoint. Tomorrow brings gentler trails, but today’s sunrise spectacle will remain etched in memory.

Hiking: 7-8 hrs.

Travel Distance: 16 km

Simple Lodge

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Morning light spills over the Imja Valley as we begin our descent, the trail weaving through rhododendron forests that grow thicker with each downward step. The air sweetens with the scent of juniper and damp earth, our lungs drinking in the oxygen-rich breeze. At Tengboche, we pause beneath the monastery's fluttering prayer flags, watching Everest's summit play peekaboo through the clouds one final time.

By afternoon, Namche's colorful rooftops appear like a mirage, the clatter of espresso machines and laughter from gear shops replacing the mountain silence. We shed our boots with relief, wandering through the market where handwoven textiles and carved singing bowls spill from shopfronts. As night falls over the amphitheater of peaks, we toast with cold Everest beers, our sun-weathered faces glowing in the lodge's warm light, no longer trekkers, but storytellers.

Hiking: 6-7 hrs.

Travel Distance: 20 km

Simple Lodge

B

Your final trekking day follows the familiar trail from Namche Bazaar back to Lukla, descending through lush rhododendron forests and crossing the iconic suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River. The downhill route offers one last chance to admire the Khumbu's breathtaking landscapes and mountain vistas. Arriving in Lukla, you'll feel a profound sense of accomplishment as you complete your Himalayan adventure.

Spend your evening in this bustling trekking hub, celebrating your achievement. Wander through the lively streets, browse local shops for souvenirs, and share stories with fellow adventurers over a well-deserved meal. As you settle into your lodge for the night, reflect on the incredible journey – from Everest's towering heights to the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people, that will linger in your memory like the majestic peaks themselves, long after your boots have left the mountain trails.

Hiking: 6-7 hrs.

Travel Distance: 19 km

Simple Lodge

B

Your Himalayan adventure concludes with an unforgettable morning flight from Lukla's thrilling airstrip back to Kathmandu. As the tiny aircraft soars between mountain peaks, catch final glimpses of the snow-capped giants that formed your trekking playground. Touch down in the bustling capital where our team transfers you to your hotel – your first proper shower and soft bed in weeks await.

The afternoon offers time to process your journey. Wander Thamel's vibrant lanes, hunting for souvenirs or savoring a celebratory coffee. As evening falls, perhaps enjoy a farewell dinner of authentic Newari cuisine, toasting both mountains conquered and friendships forged. Though your boots may be muddy, your memories will shine as bright as Everest's summit snows.

Flight: 40 min

Hotel

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As your Nepalese adventure concludes, ensure you arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight departure. While heading home, take this time to contemplate and plan your next thrilling journey in Nepal, a land of endless wonders and opportunities for exploration. Nepal's beauty and adventure await your return.

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Ø  The best times for this trek are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and mountain views are clear.

Ø  This trek is challenging and not recommended for beginners. Prior high-altitude trekking experience, physical fitness, and acclimatization are crucial.

Ø  A guide is highly recommended for safety, navigation, and managing the challenges of the Cho La Pass. Experienced guides are familiar with the terrain and altitude.

Ø  You will need the Sagarmatha National Park Permit, the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit, and the Gokyo and Cho La region permits. These can be obtained in Kathmandu.

Ø  This trek is considered challenging due to its longer duration and the need to cross Cho La Pass, which involves steep, icy terrain. It's essential to be physically fit and prepared for altitude challenges.

Ø  A high level of physical fitness is necessary as the trek involves long and challenging days with steep ascents and descents. Strength, stamina, and cardiovascular fitness are essential.

Ø  Essentials include warm clothing, a good pair of hiking boots, a down jacket, a trekking pole, a daypack, and a high-quality sleeping bag suitable for cold weather.

Ø  Highlights include reaching Everest Base Camp, crossing Cho La Pass, visiting the pristine Gokyo Lakes, and enjoying panoramic mountain views from Gokyo Ri.

Ø  Some customization is possible. You can extend your stay in specific areas, add side trips, or explore nearby attractions. Discuss these options with your trekking agency.

Ø  Altitude sickness is a concern as you'll be trekking to high altitudes, especially during the Cho La Pass crossing. Proper acclimatization and monitoring are crucial.

Ø  Teahouses and lodges are available along the route, providing basic but comfortable accommodations and meals. Facilities may vary in some remote areas.

Ø  Basic medical facilities are available in some villages, but it's wise to carry a personal medical kit. In case of severe health issues, you may need to be evacuated to a lower altitude.

Ø  Yes, it's highly advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation.

Ø  It's advisable to book through a reputable trekking agency before your trip. They can help with permits, accommodations, and logistics.