Trip Overview – Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes Trek (18 Days)
The Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes Trek is one of the most beautiful and rewarding trekking routes in the entire Everest region. It combines the serenity of the Gokyo Valley, the excitement of crossing Cho La Pass, and the classic approach to Everest Base Camp, creating a journey filled with dramatic scenery and unforgettable Himalayan moments.
This spectacular 18 day adventure begins with a thrilling mountain flight to Lukla, followed by a gradual ascent through lush valleys, suspension bridges, and Sherpa villages that reflect the warmth and spirit of the Khumbu. The trail soon leaves the main route and enters the peaceful Gokyo Valley, home to Nepal’s most stunning high altitude lake system. Here, turquoise waters mirror towering snow peaks while the mighty Ngozumpa Glacier stretches across the landscape.
A sunrise climb up Gokyo Ri at 5,357 m rewards you with one of the greatest panoramas on the planet. Four of the world’s highest peaks stand together in one sweeping view including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu. It is an experience that defines the magic of the Himalayas.
Crossing the icy and dramatic Cho La Pass brings you into the Everest Base Camp valley where glaciers, towering rock faces and the energy of expedition history surround you. Standing at Everest Base Camp at 5,364 m is a proud and emotional moment for any trekker.
Your journey continues with a sunrise hike to Kala Patthar at 5,545 m, the finest viewpoint for capturing Everest glowing gold in the morning light. The descent passes through Pangboche, Tengboche and Namche, villages rich in prayer flags, monasteries and Sherpa culture.
With a perfect blend of alpine beauty, cultural immersion, glacier crossings and world class viewpoints, this trek is the most scenic and varied way to reach Everest Base Camp. It is ideal for trekkers seeking challenge, adventure and a deeper connection to the Himalayas.
Trip Highlights – Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass
Experience the most scenic and rewarding route to Everest Base Camp
Follow the breathtaking Gokyo Valley route, a quieter and more panoramic alternative to the classic trail with pristine lakes, dramatic glaciers and uninterrupted views of Himalayan giants.
Stand atop Gokyo Ri at 5,357 m
Enjoy one of the best viewpoints in Nepal with a once in a lifetime panorama featuring four of the world’s highest peaks including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu rising above turquoise lakes.
Walk beside the shimmering turquoise Gokyo Lakes
Explore Nepal’s most beautiful high altitude lake system, a sacred Sherpa pilgrimage site surrounded by towering peaks and the immense Ngozumpa Glacier.
Conquer the iconic Cho La Pass at 5,330 m
Cross an exciting glacier pass with icy slopes, rugged alpine terrain and spectacular mountain scenery.
Reach Everest Base Camp at 5,364 m
Stand at the foot of the world’s highest mountain where legendary climbers begin their Everest ascent. The Khumbu Icefall and prayer flag lined paths create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Enjoy the finest sunrise in the Himalayas from Kala Patthar at 5,545 m
Watch Everest turn gold at dawn as sunlight washes over Everest, Nuptse and the Khumbu Glacier.
Explore the vibrant Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar
Visit mountain cafés, monasteries, shops and markets while experiencing the warmth and hospitality of Sherpa culture.
Immerse in Himalayan Buddhist traditions
Visit historic monasteries in Tengboche and Pangboche, spin prayer wheels and walk beside mani stones lining ancient trade routes.
Trek through Sagarmatha National Park
Experience a UNESCO World Heritage landscape filled with forests, alpine valleys, glacial moraines, suspension bridges and diverse wildlife.
Enjoy one of the world’s most mesmerizing flights
Start your adventure with the iconic Kathmandu to Lukla mountain flight with aerial views of Himalayan peaks.
Welcome to Nepal. Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, a Royal Orchid representative escorts you to your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Nepali welcome dinner and a detailed briefing about your trek.
Accommodation: Hotel | Meals: Dinner
Day 2 – Fly Kathmandu to Lukla (2,828 m) and Trek to Phakding (2,800 m)
Begin your journey with one of the world’s most scenic mountain flights to Lukla. After meeting your trek crew, follow a gentle downhill trail along the Dudh Koshi River through pine forests and charming Sherpa hamlets until you reach Phakding.
Accommodation: Lodge | Meals: B/L/D
Day 3 – Trek Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
Cross several iconic suspension bridges, pass mani walls, and enter Sagarmatha National Park. A final steady ascent brings you to the famous Sherpa capital, Namche Bazaar, buzzing with cafés, bakeries, markets, and mountain views.
Accommodation: Lodge | Meals: B/L/D
Day 4 – Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
A full day to adjust to the altitude. Take a scenic hike to the Everest View Hotel at 3,880 m for stunning vistas of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse, then visit the Sherpa Museum to learn about Himalayan culture and mountaineering history.
Accommodation: Lodge | Meals: B/L/D
Day 5 – Trek Namche to Dole (4,200 m)
Leave the main Everest Base Camp trail and ascend gradually toward the peaceful Gokyo Valley. Hike through rhododendron and juniper forests with sweeping views of Khumbila and Thamserku along the way.
Accommodation: Lodge | Meals: B/L/D
Day 6 – Trek Dole to Machhermo (4,470 m)
Climb steadily through yak pastures and high alpine terrain. The views open wider today, revealing glimpses of Cho Oyu at 8,188 m rising above the valley.
Accommodation: Lodge | Meals: B/L/D
Day 7 – Trek Machhermo to Gokyo (4,750 m)
Follow a scenic path alongside the Dudh Pokhari stream and pass the first two shimmering Gokyo Lakes before reaching the third and most beautiful turquoise lake beside the village of Gokyo.
Accommodation: Lodge | Meals: B/L/D
Day 8 – Acclimatization Day in Gokyo (4,750 m)
An early morning ascent of Gokyo Ri at 5,357 m rewards you with one of the greatest panoramas in the Himalayas. See Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier in a single breathtaking frame.
Accommodation: Lodge | Meals: B/L/D
Day 9 – Trek Gokyo to Thangnak (4,750 m)
Cross the mighty Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in Nepal, navigating rocky moraines before reaching Thangnak, set beneath dramatic snow peaks.
Accommodation: Lodge | Meals: B/L/D
Day 10 – Cross Cho La Pass (5,330 m) and Trek to Lobuche (4,940 m)
One of the most thrilling days of the trek. Ascend steep snowy ramps, cross the icy Cho La Glacier, and descend into the Everest Valley. Spectacular alpine scenery surrounds you throughout the crossing.
Accommodation: Lodge | Meals: B/L/D
Day 11 – Trek Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and Return to Gorakshep (5,170 m)
Walk along the Khumbu Glacier toward the legendary Everest Base Camp, the starting point for summit expeditions. Explore the glacier landscape, then return to Gorakshep for the night.
Accommodation: Lodge | Meals: B/L/D
Day 12 – Hike Kala Patthar (5,545 m) and Descend to Dingboche (4,360 m)
Begin early to climb Kala Patthar, the best viewpoint for sunrise over Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and the glowing Khumbu Icefall. After this unforgettable moment, descend to the warmer valley of Dingboche.
Accommodation: Lodge | Meals: B/L/D
Day 13 – Contingency or Reserve Day
A buffer day to accommodate weather conditions or extra acclimatization, ensuring safety for all high altitude sections.
Accommodation: Lodge | Meals: B/L/D
Day 14 – Trek Dingboche to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
Retrace your steps through Pangboche and Tengboche, enjoying lush forests, cultural sites, and final views of Ama Dablam before returning to Namche.
Accommodation: Lodge | Meals: B/L/D
Day 15 – Trek Namche to Lukla (2,828 m)
Your final trekking day follows the Dudh Koshi Valley back to Lukla. Celebrate your incredible journey with your Sherpa team.
Accommodation: Lodge | Meals: B/L/D
Day 16 – Fly Lukla to Kathmandu (1,400 m)
A scenic morning flight returns you to Kathmandu. The afternoon is free for rest, cafés, or shopping.
Accommodation: Hotel | Meals: Breakfast
Day 17 – Kathmandu Sightseeing
Visit Kathmandu’s major UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath. Free evening for shopping and cultural exploration.
Accomodation: Hotel | Meals: Breakfast
Day 18 – Final Departure
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. Farewell from the Himalayas.
Meals: Breakfast
Why Royal Orchid Trek for Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes Trek
Sherpa Led Expertise From the Heart of Everest
As a proud Sherpa owned company rooted in Solukhumbu, we bring generations of Himalayan knowledge, mountaineering heritage and local insight. Trek with experts who know every trail, monastery, glacier and mountain story by heart.
Unmatched Safety and Professional Care
Your safety is our highest priority. Our guides are trained in altitude management, first aid and high mountain rescue protocols. We follow a scientifically structured acclimatization plan to ensure a safe, comfortable and successful journey at high altitude.
Exceptional Support Team and Personalized Service
Travel in small groups for a more flexible, intimate and enriching experience. Our caring guides and porters ensure you walk at your own pace, feel supported at every step and enjoy warm Sherpa hospitality in every teahouse.
Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Trekking
We are committed to environmental stewardship and community empowerment. By choosing us, you directly support local families, community lodges and conservation initiatives across the Khumbu region.
Authentic Sherpa Experience and local connections
As a family-run Sherpa company, we go beyond guiding — we connect you to the heart of the Everest region. Experience life in Sherpa villages such as Namche, Khumjung, and Pangboche, share stories with locals, and enjoy genuine hospitality that transforms your trek into an unforgettable cultural exchange.
Premium Logistics and ground support
Every aspect of your trek is thoughtfully arranged. From reliable domestic flights and comfortable lodges to nutritious meals and purified water, we handle the logistics so you can fully immerse yourself in the Himalayan experience.
Include & Excludes
Include
All airport pick up and drop off services in Kathmandu by private vehicle
Three nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
All private ground transportation as per itinerary
Round trip domestic flights between Kathmandu and Lukla
Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
All meals during the trek including breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea and coffee
Accommodation in mountain lodges or teahouses throughout the trek
Experienced licensed English speaking trekking guide
Porter service at a ratio of one porter for every two trekkers carrying up to fifteen kilograms each
Insurance, meals, accommodation and equipment for all trekking staff
First aid kit and necessary safety equipment carried by the guide
Duffel bag for personal trekking gear to be returned after trek completion
Comprehensive pre departure briefing and welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu
All government taxes, service charges and official documentatio
Exclude
International flights to and from Nepal
Nepal visa fees
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Personal trekking gear
Travel insurance with high altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation coverage
Alcoholic drinks, bottled water, snacks and personal beverages
Wi Fi, hot showers and battery charging in teahouses
Tips for guides, porters and drivers
Extra accommodation or transportation due to flight delays or itinerary changes
Optional sightseeing activities in Kathmandu
Any services not mentioned under Cost Includes
Frequently Asked & Question
The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer clear skies, stable weather, and breathtaking mountain views. Winter is very cold with heavy snow, and the monsoon season (June–August) brings rain, landslides, and slippery trails.
Trekkers need:
1) Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
2) TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card.
Our company handles all trekking permits, so you can focus on enjoying the trek without any logistical stress.