Gokyo Lakes + EBC Trek
Turquoise lakes and Everest Base Camp in one epic journey
This 18-day itinerary combines two of the Khumbu's greatest highlights — the stunning turquoise Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp — connected via the dramatic Cho La Pass (5,420m). You get the classic EBC experience plus the Gokyo valley's otherworldly lake system and a climb of Gokyo Ri for a panorama that rivals Kala Patthar. This is the trek for those who want more than just Base Camp.
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Day-by-Day Itinerary
A detailed look at each day of your Gokyo Lakes + EBC Trek adventure. Every itinerary is crafted to balance trekking, acclimatization, and cultural experiences.
Day 1: Kathmandu — Arrival & Briefing
Arrive in Kathmandu. Meet guide, gear check, trek briefing, welcome dinner.
Day 2: Fly to Lukla (2,840m) — Trek to Phakding (2,610m)
Flight to Lukla. Easy walk along the Dudh Koshi to Phakding. Walking time: 3-4 hours.
Day 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Enter Sagarmatha National Park. Climb to Namche Bazaar. Walking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 4: Acclimatization Day in Namche
Hike to Everest View Hotel or Khumjung village. Rest and acclimatize.
Day 5: Namche to Dole (4,110m)
Head northwest on the Gokyo trail, diverging from the standard EBC route. Trek through rhododendron forest to the small settlement of Dole. Walking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 6: Dole to Machhermo (4,470m)
Continue up the Dudh Koshi valley. Pass through Lhabarma and Luza. Arrive at Machhermo with views of Cho Oyu. Walking time: 4-5 hours.
Day 7: Machhermo to Gokyo (4,790m)
Trek alongside the Ngozumpa Glacier — the longest glacier in the Himalayas. Pass the first and second Gokyo Lakes. Arrive at the third lake, where the village sits. Walking time: 4-5 hours.
Day 8: Gokyo Ri (5,357m) — Explore Gokyo Lakes
Early morning climb of Gokyo Ri for a 360-degree panorama: Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, and the Ngozumpa Glacier sprawling below. Afternoon free to walk to the fourth and fifth lakes.
Day 9: Gokyo to Thagnak (4,750m)
Short trek southeast to Thagnak, the staging point for Cho La Pass. Rest and prepare. Walking time: 2-3 hours.
Day 10: Thagnak — Cho La Pass (5,420m) — Dzongla (4,830m)
Cross the dramatic Cho La Pass with its glacial moraine and short ice section. Descend to Dzongla on the EBC side. Walking time: 7-8 hours.
Day 11: Dzongla to Lobuche (4,940m)
Short trek to Lobuche. Rest day to recover from Cho La crossing. Walking time: 2-3 hours.
Day 12: Lobuche to Gorak Shep (5,164m) — Everest Base Camp (5,364m)
Trek to Gorak Shep, then push to Everest Base Camp. Stand at the Khumbu Icefall. Return to Gorak Shep. Walking time: 7-8 hours.
Day 13: Kala Patthar (5,545m) — Descend to Pheriche (4,240m)
Pre-dawn Kala Patthar for Everest sunrise. Long descent to Pheriche. Walking time: 8-9 hours.
Day 14: Pheriche to Tengboche (3,867m)
Descend through Pangboche to Tengboche. Walking time: 5-6 hours.
Day 15: Tengboche to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Descend through rhododendron forest back to Namche. Walking time: 4-5 hours.
Day 16: Namche to Lukla (2,840m)
Final trekking day. Farewell dinner. Walking time: 6-7 hours.
Day 17: Fly Lukla to Kathmandu
Morning flight. Free afternoon in Kathmandu. Celebration dinner.
Day 18: Departure Day
Airport transfer and departure.
What Is Included
Included in Your Trip
- Gokyo Lakes + EBC
Two iconic Khumbu destinations in one trek — the turquoise lakes and Everest Base Camp.
- Cho La Pass Crossing
Cross the dramatic 5,420m Cho La Pass connecting the Gokyo and Khumbu valleys.
- Two Summit Viewpoints
Climb both Gokyo Ri (5,357m) and Kala Patthar (5,545m) for the two best Everest panoramas.
- Fewer Crowds
The Gokyo side of the trek sees far fewer trekkers than the standard EBC route.
Not Included
- International flights to and from the destination
- Travel insurance (required, purchased separately)
- Personal gear and equipment
- Tips for guides and support staff (recommended)
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
Difficulty: Hard
Understanding what to expect helps you prepare properly and enjoy your trek to the fullest.
Fitness Requirements
- Want more than just Everest Base Camp — interested in the Gokyo Lakes and Cho La
- Have 18 days available for a comprehensive Khumbu trek
- Good fitness for a demanding itinerary with a high pass crossing
- Previous multi-day trekking experience recommended
Gokyo Lakes + EBC Trek — Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cho La Pass dangerous?
Ready to Book Gokyo Lakes + EBC Trek?
Secure your spot on this incredible adventure. 18 days of expert-guided trekking from $1,600. Contact us today to check availability.