Region: |
Everest |
Max-Altitude: |
5,545m/18,187ft |
Duration: |
17 Days |
Trek Grade: |
Strenuous |
Trail Access: |
Flight (Ktm - Lukla - Ktm) |
Best Season: |
Oct to Nov, Mar to May |
Trekking Style: |
Tea House |
Group Size: |
Min 2 to Max 12Pax |
|
|
|
|
Nepal, nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, is a paradise for trekking enthusiasts.
With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and rich cultural heritage,
it offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those seeking adventure and serenity
in the mountains. Among the many trekking routes in Nepal, the Everest Base Camp,
Chola Pass, and Gokyo Lakes trek stand out as some of the most popular
and awe-inspiring journeys.
The Everest Base Camp trek takes you to the foot of the world's highest peak,
Mount Everest. It is a challenging yet rewarding expedition that offers panoramic
views of majestic peaks, including Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. The trek
begins in the bustling town of Lukla and winds through picturesque Sherpa
villages, suspension bridges, and rhododendron forests. Along the way, trekkers
can explore ancient monasteries, encounter yaks grazing on high-altitude pastures,
and experience the unique Sherpa culture.
For those seeking an added challenge and an opportunity to explore more remote
regions of the Everest region, the Chola Pass trek is a perfect choice. This trek
combines the beauty of the Everest Base Camp route with a thrilling crossing of
the high-altitude Chola Pass (5,420m). The trail takes trekkers through isolated
valleys, icy rivers, and pristine forests. The journey rewards adventurers with
surreal views of Cho Oyu and the turquoise Gokyo Lakes.
The Gokyo Lakes trek is a picturesque alternative to the traditional Everest
Base Camp trek. It takes you off the beaten path to a series of six stunning
glacial lakes nestled amidst towering mountains. The trek offers a chance to
explore the less crowded Gokyo Valley and provides awe-inspiring views of Everest,
Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
In conclusion, trekking in Nepal is an experience like no other. Whether you
choose the classic Everest Base Camp trek or opt for the challenging Chola Pass
and Gokyo Lakes trek, you are guaranteed to be captivated by the awe-inspiring
beauty of the Himalayas. So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and embark on
this unforgettable adventure in the land of the world's highest peaks.
Highlights
+ Majestic views of Mount Everest and other Himalayan peaks
+ Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
+ Tengboche Monastery, a spiritual haven amidst stunning surroundings
+ Namche Bazaar, a bustling market town with a unique blend of cultures
+ Challenging yet rewarding trekking experience
+ Gokyo Ri, offering breathtaking views of Everest and surrounding peaks
+ Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in the Himalayas
+ Tranquil Gokyo Lakes, a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists
+ Sherpa hospitality in traditional teahouses along the trail
+ Crossing the challenging Chola Pass
+ Gokyo Ri, a viewpoint for panoramic Himalayan vistas
+ Ngozumpa Tsho, the largest of the Gokyo Lakes
+ Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
+ Remote Sherpa settlements and their unique way of life
DAY 1: Welcome to Kathmandu!
Altitude:1,350m/4,428ft
Welcome to Kathmandu, the lovely and historic capital of Nepal! We'll be at the airport waiting for you
when you step off the plane, ready to transfer you to your hotel.Plan on an evening briefing on
last-minute specifics about your trek and an early lights-out: you have a big day ahead.
DAY 2: Fly Kathmandu to Lukla, Trek to Phakding
Altitude: 2,800m/9184ft (Lukla), 2,652m/8,698ft (Phakding)
Walking time: 3-4 hours
Flight time: 15 min from Ramecchap
Drive time: 4 hours & 30mins (Kathmandu to Ramecchap)
After a short morning flight to Lukla, you'll be introduced to your guide and porter. Kick off your trek
with an easy walk through Chaurikharka village and descent towards Dudhkoshi Ghat (2,530m/8,300ft). The
trail follows the bank of the Dudhkoshi River until Phakding (2,652m/8,700ft), where we will be staying
for the night to acclimatize. Enjoy your free time in Phakding, a popular stopping point.
DAY 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar
Altitude: 3,440m/11,283ft
Walking time: 5-6 hours
We'll have breakfast in Phakding before gearing up for the trek to Namche Bazaar, the biggest sherpa
village in Nepal. Our trail takes us first over the Dudhkoshi River via a long suspension bridge, and
then through a beautiful pine forest to Monjo, about two hours away. Soon thereafter, we will approach
the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park for a brief permit check and then descend to Dudh Kosi River
(spotting Mani stones along the way!) en route to Jorsale. Lunch will be served here, and then it's
uphill to Namche. Our path along the riverbank is flanked by two crossings, one of which is the Hillary
Suspension Bridge. It's a tough climb up the hill to our resting place, but you'll be rewarded in Namche
Bazaar with your first glimpse of Everest in its majesty
DAY 4: Namche Bazaar: Rest and Acclimatization Day
Altitude: 3,440m/11,283ft
There are plenty of things to do around Namche Bazaar, and we can spend a day here acclimatizing. Namche
Bazzar 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 (12401ft)-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.
DAY 5: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche
Altitude: 3,870m/12,684ft
Walking time: 6 hours
This segment of the trek includes the famous descent to the Dudh-Koshi River and the equally famous
ascent along the rhododendron forests to Tengboche. While descending to Dudh Kish River, we enjoy the
views of mountain tops like Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kongde and so on. Upon
reaching Tengboche, we visit Tengboche monastery-the largest monastery in the region and soak in the
views of Everest, Ama Dablam and other peaks.
DAY 6: Tengboche to Dingboche
Altitude: 4,400m/14,435ft
Walking time: 5-6 hours
We descent and trek through forests filled with a variety of lush trees – birch, conifers and
rhododendrons. This journey again rewards us with tremendous views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Ama
Dablam. The picturesque trail dips down to Devuche, crosses the Imja River and takes us to Pangboche.
The upper Pangboche trails reward us with a more pristine view of the Himalayas and the Pangboche
Monastery. The trek moves ahead towards the Imja Valley, Lobuche River and ultimately begins climbing up
to Dingboche. At Dingboche, we see a beautiful array of fields enclosed by stone walls to protect
barley, buckwheat and potatoes from the cold winds and grazing animals.
DAY 7: Dingboche: Rest and Acclimatization Day
Altitude: 4,400m/14,435ft
This is your chance to rest up before the last leg of our adventure! Savor a full day of exploring
Dingboche and the surrounding valleys of Chhukung and Imja, the latter of which links with Island Peak,
the high passes of Amphu Laptsa, and Makalu Barun National Park. Taking an optional trek to the valleys
will pay off in rewarding views, but taking it easy is the most important thing today. You'll need your
rest for the penultimate day of ascent tomorrow.
DAY 8: Dingboche to Lobuche
Altitude: 4,900m/16,076ft
Walking time: 5-6 hours
We start the day with a gradual climb to Duglha at the end of the terminal moraine of the Khumbu
Glacier. From here, we climb up a steep trail to Chupki Lhara, where we find an array of stones with
prayer flags used as memorials to Scott Fischer (American mountaineer) and 10-time Everest submitter
Babu Chiri Sherpa (Nepali mountain guide) who perished on a mission to climb Everest. Next, we continue
to the Khumbu Glacier moraine and find ourselves facing several great peaks - Khumbutse, Lingtren,
Pumori and Mahalangur Himal. The trail then eases off as we follow the valley to Lobuche.
DAY 9: Lobuche to Gorakshep, Everest Base Camp and Gorakshep
Altitude: 5180m/16,994ft (Gorekshep), 5364m/17598 (EBC)
Walking time: 7-8 hours
We take the trail to Everest Base Camp through the once vast Gorak Shep Lake. Continuing straight ahead,
we come across the Indian army mountaineers' memorials. The path from here can be misleading; hence, it
is important that we follow our lead Sherpa diligently. The walk is strenuous due to thin air in the
high altitude. We pass through rocky dunes, moraine and streams before reaching the Everest Base Camp.
Upon reaching the Everest Base Camp, we see tents of mountaineers that 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. We get back to Gorak Shep for a good night's rest
DAY 10: Gorakshep to Kalapattar and Dzongla
Altitude: 5,545m/18,192ft (Kalapathar), 4,830m/15,850ft (Dzongla)
Walking time: 7-8 hours
We'll wake before dawn today to trek towards Kalapathar (which means "black rock") for a fiery,
glorious sunrise over Mt. Everest. The day's first light will illuminate your spectacular
view of Nuptse Nup, Changtse and Lhotse.This may be, of the whole journey, your most
opportune moment to snap amazing pictures of Everest and its neighboring peaks.
Afterwards, it's back to Gorekshep for breakfast and down in the direction of
Lobuche. From Lobuche we trek downhill on a trail alongside the Khumbu Glacier.
Our trail splits into two and we choose the trail on our right. On the way we can
better admire the view of the looming Awi Peak. We pass through a stupa and
tombstones in the distance. After walking for a while we begin to ascend. During the
ascent, we see Chola Tsho Lake nearby. We continue further and pass another lake which
is lot smaller than the Chola Tsho Lake. We cross the Chola Khola on a bridge before
reaching Dzongla. Overnight in Dzongla.
DAY 11: Dzongla to Gokya Via Chola Pass
Altitude: 4,800m/15,850ft,Chola Pass 5,368m/17,611ft
Walking time: 7-8 hours
As we gain height, the Cho La Lake begins to appear and the Ama Dablam presides over a range of
mountains on the south and Cholatse soars on the west. Climbing the incline is not easy;
it is steep, but made worse by boulders over some of which we will have to scramble. The final
climb to the Cho La can be a little tricky as the trail curves round a crevasse. The top of the
pass is marked by prayer flags and cairns. Scenery of majestic peaks on all directions is
breathtaking. Although long, the path leading down to Thangnak is not difficult. Our trail
brings us to the edge of the Ngozumpa glacier, which is the longest glacier in Nepal. Reaching
the other side of the glacier, we see the second Gokyo Lake on the series of six lakes. A short
distance away is the third Gokyo Lake. On the edge of this lake stands the Gokyo Village where
we spend the night.
DAY 12: Gokyo, Rest and climb Gokyo Ri
Altitude: 5,357m/17,575ft
Walking time: 4-5 hours
We climb Gokyo Ri today and enjoy views of the incredible mountain vista. We can also tour the
fourth Gokyo Lake today which is only 3km north of the Gokyo Village. Next, continue trekking
to the 5th lake. The view from 'Scoundrel's Viewpoint', located at the edge of the 5th lake,
is astonishing. Cho-Oyu, Gyachung Kang, Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Makulu mountains and
the huge Ngozumba Glacier are ours to admire. We trek back to Gokyo and spend the night.
DAY 13: Gokyo to Dole
Altitude: 3,380m/12,073ft
Walking time: 6-7 hours
We descend on a trail along the Dudh Koshi River and pass the first Gokyo lakes. On the way we
also enjoy views of the Cholatse and Taboche peaks. Our trail descends before climbing a hill.
After reaching the chorten at the edge, we see great views of Thamserku, Cho Oyu, and Kangtega
mountains. We walk past Machhermo, Luza and Lhafarma villages before reaching Dole.
DAY 14: Dole to Namche
Altitude: 3,440m/11,283ft
Walking time: 5-6 hours
We descend on a steep trail to Phortse Thanga admiring rhododendrons, wildflowers and waterfalls.
We also come across mountain goats, musk deer, pheasants, etc. From Mong, we can admire a good
view of Khumbila peak. On our way to Namche the view of Taboche, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and
Kangtega mountains are ours to admire. After walking for a while, we reach an intersection
where the trail from Sanasa meets our trail. We walk on a trail that clings to a forested
slope beyond Kyangjuma, winding through several bends. After reaching Namche army camp hill,
we look back to see Lhotse, the tip of Everest and Tengboche for one last time. About
a kilometer from here is Namche Bazaar.
DAY 15: Namche to Lukla
Altitude: 2,800m/9,184ft
Walking time: 7-8 hours
We descend on a rocky trail and cross several suspension bridges before walking on a leveled trail.
The air is warmer as we walk on the same trail to reach Lukla. Our trek in the mountain ends after
we reach Lukla. We spend our time reminiscing about our time spent in the mountain.
DAY 16: Lukla to Kathmandu
We fly back to Kathmandu on the earliest possible flight. After reaching Kathmandu we have
the rest of the day off to rest. In the evening, there will be a farewell dinner to enjoy with
our trek leader to mark the end of our trip in Nepal.
DAY 17: Kathmandu: Departure Day
It's your last day in Nepal! Grab some breakfast, and then take in some last-minute shopping
in Kathmandu. We'll make sure you arrive at Kathmandu International Airport with plenty time
before your flight home. At this time, we'll say our goodbyes and bid you farewell, armed
with warm memories and gorgeous photos to show your loved ones.
What is Included?
Domestic airport transfers on the first day and end of the
trek
Teahouse accommodation with meals (Breakfast, Lunch,
Dinner) while on the trek
All hot drinks such as Tea, Coffee or Hot Chocolate a day
while trekking
Domestic flights (Kathmandu - Lukla - Kathmandu as per
itinerary)
All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (National
Park Permit, TIMS)
An experienced, English-speaking and government-licensed
trek guide
Necessary porters to carry all personal gear and group
equipment(2 trekkers: 1 porter)
Respective region (Everest) trekking map
Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment,
transportation, food and accommodation
All government and local taxes
What is Not Included?
Nepal entry Visa fees
Your travel insurance (compulsory)
International airfare and airport tax
Hotels in Kathmandu or Pokhara (if you need this
service we are happy to help you booking
your hotels as per your requirements.)
Sightseeing tours (if you need this service we can help
you as
per your requirements)
Trekking equipments
Tips for trekking staff
Items of personal expenses like hot shower, battery
charge, telephone, beverage drinks, desserts, laundry etc.
Any other expenses which are not mentioned on the
service included section.
Additional Services
During your time in Kathmandu, we could provide: Hotel booking, Sightseeing Tour, Flight booking
(Mountain flight, domestic and international), Transportation arrangements (Tourist bus,
private car and jeep), Helicopter Rescue and chartered flights, Helicopter tours, Mountain
Biking, Village walk, Culture show, Airport pick up, Bus park pick up, Bungy jumping,
Paragliding, Rafting, Jugle Safari according to your requirements. Sam can help to arrange
any of these Excursions for you!
Travel Insurance
Proof of travel insurance is mandatory before starting the trek. Standard policies often only cover
medical evacuation to 4000m so make sure the policy you get covers up to 6000m. We usually suggest World
Nomads which costs around $125. You only need to be covered on the policy for the days you will actually
be trekking.
Extra Costs and Exclusions
Nepal multiple entry visa 30 days ($50 USD).
Sleeping Bag Rental $12 and Down Jacket $12 if needed.
All the meals are included on the trek but we only include breakfast while you are in Pokhara.
We suggest a tip for the guide and porter after the trek - Plan on a at least $80 (more will be
appreciated).
We don't include drinking water on the trek which you can buy a number of places for between $1 and $3 a
bottle (it gets more expensive towards base camp). A better solution is to buy water tablets in
Kathmandu for around $2 and treat the water (your guide can help you find the good places to fill your
water bottle).
The other things not included on the trek are like Wifi, charging batteries and hot showers. Wifi is
available in some tea houses for $3 to $5 an hour. Hot Showers are also available in a few for around $4
and charging costs about $1.50 an hour.
Unforeseen cost due to flight cancellation, weather conditions etc. You are responsible for extra hotel
nights ($30/night) and meals in Kathmandu for any extra days in Nepal due to flight delays.
Solo Travelers
We generally don't charge solo travelers any extra fees. Solo travelers can expect their own hotel room
in Kathmandu but will need to share a room with other group members during the trek. If availability
allows we will arrange private rooms on the trek as well upon request.
If you are a solo travelers and planning and not joining one of our
group treks you will be charged an extra $20 a day for a porter.
Cancellation Policies
We understand things happen and plans change and will refund your fund minus
a 25% cancelation fee. If your travel dates change we can
generally reschedule you at no extra charge, but please provide at least
7 days advance notice.