Original Everest - Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes and Cho-La

Original Everest - Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes and Cho-La

This trek follows the original Everest route via Gokyo Lakes and the Cho La pass to reach Everest Base Camp (EBC). From Gokyo, the four 8000m peaks of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu are clearly visible. En route you'll also have several options for additional side trips and high altitude walks before you traverse the high Cho-La pass to reach EBC. Standing at Kalapathar, the highest point of the trek, you'll be able to take in the stunning close up, panoramic views of towering, snow-capped peaks, including Mt. Everest. As well as stunning peak views, this outstanding trek visits the deep, lush valleys of the Khumbu (Everest) region, with time to explore the local villages and monasteries and to sample the incredible hospitality of the Sherpa people.

Itinerary

• Day 1

  Arrive Kathmandu (1300m) and transfer to hotel.

  Welcome to Nepal. Once through immigration and baggage collection, head to the meeting area outside the airport where you'll be met by one of our local team for the transfer drive to your hotel. After time to rest and get refreshed, you'll have an informal briefing and overview about the local area and tomorrow's guided tour of Kathmandu plus a chance to ask any questions. This evening we invite you to enjoy a complimentary welcome dinner at one of the finest traditional Nepalese restaurants in Kathmandu. Overnight Kathmandu.
  

• Day 2

  Transfer drive Kathmandu to Ramechhap

  This morning you'll meet your trekking guide who'll brief you on your trek and answer any questions you may have. Then it's time for the drive to Ramechhap where you'll stay overnight before your flight to Lukla tomorrow morning.  It's around a 4-5 hour fairly scenic drive. After arrival the rest of your day is free to rest and relax, ready for your trek starting tomorrow. Overnight Ramechhap.
  

• Day 3

  Fly to Lukla (2840m) and trek to Phakding (2610m) 04 hrs trek.

  This morning it's a short transfer drive to the domestic airport for your short flight (around 20 minutes) to Lukla, the spectacular mountain airstrip from where treks and expeditions to the Everest region begin. The flight itself is awe-inspiring, as you fly parallel to the Himalayan giants bordering Nepal and Tibet.  

  On arrival to Lukla, there's some time to explore the village while your Sherpa crew sort and load the equipment. Lukla lies at an altitude of 2840m and means “Place of Sheep.” From Lukla, we descend northwest on a wide trail to the village of Choblung in the Dudh Koshi Valley. The valley is covered with beautiful pine and rhododendron forests. The walking is easy as we follow the river’s course, passing through the village of Ghat. Our destination for today is the small village of Phakding. Evening at leisure. Overnight at a local teahouse lodge.
  

• Day 4

  Trek to Namche 93440m) 05 hrs trek.

  After crossing the suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi, the walk is pleasant, with a few short ascents and descents, until we re-cross the Dudh Koshi river from the village of Benkar, taking in the magnificent views of Thermasarkhu peak (6608 m). We then cross the long suspension bridge over the Bhote Koshi river to reach Monjo village, situated below the spectacular peak of Thermasherkhu and a few minutes' walk from the entrance to Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park. At the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park, your trekking permit will be checked, as the National Park keeps a record of all trekkers in the area. From here, a short descent brings us to another suspension bridge over the Bhote Koshi river, after which we reach a bridge to Jorsalle village, the last village and the only place to shop until we reach Namche Bazaar, so a good place to get any additional snacks if needed. The walk from Jorsalle village is pleasant, following the river until coming to the last bridge over the Imjatse river. The walk to Namche Bazaar traces a winding, uphill path, with a magnificent view of Kwangde Peak and its other sister peaks towards the east and Kusum Kangru to our back. As we climb higher, we'll be able to see the Mount Everest- Nuptse wall, Lhotse, and Taweche Peak, all the way up to Thop Danda, where there is a stone wall for porters and trekkers to rest on. From here, another 1-2 hour trek takes us to famed Namche Bazaar, where the colorful houses are situated in an amphitheatre style. Evening at leisure. Overnight at a local teahouse lodge.

• Day 5

  Rest and acclimatisation day at Namche Bazaar (3440m).

  This is a day to rest and acclimatise before we trek to higher altitudes tomorrow. Relax at the teahouse or explore the local area. Suggested activities include taking the short walk uphill to the Sagarmatha National Park Headquarters, a magnificent spot perched on top of Namche Bazaar, with breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped giants and the deep valleys below. There is also an interesting museum telling of the history of the Himalayas, the geographic information of the area and local cultural practices, mountaineering history, and the flora and fauna of the region. Full day at leisure and overnight at the teahouse lodge.

• Day 6

  Trek to Dole (4200m) via Phortse Tenga 06 -07 hrs trek.

  This morning we head towards the Gokyo region, passing by chortens and the striking scenery of Everest and Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Kangtenga, Kusum Kangru, Taweche, and many more peaks around the area. We'll have 360 degree views of snow-capped mountains from this route, which takes us up to Kyanjuma. This is also one of the most popular places to view Himalayan wildlife, such as Musk Deer, Danfe Pheasants, Blood Pheasants and Himalayan goats. The trek then ascends to the left side of Monga hill, and continues down to Phortse Thanga where we stop for lunch. After lunch, the path winds up through the beautiful countryside and passes through the gorge to reach Dole, where we'll rest overnight at a local teahouse lodge.

• Day 7

  Dole to Machhermo (4470m) 02 -03 hrs trek.

  This is a short day with the trail steep throughout. From Dole, the trail climbs via Lhabarma (4220 m) to Luza (4360 m). The path is steep as it climbs through scrub to reach Lhabarma and then continues to climb along the side of the valley, high above the river, crossing sandy spurs to reach Machermo (4410 m). It was in Machermo that, in 1974, one of the first yeti sightings was reported in the Khumbu (Everest) region. There are just a few lodges here and good mountain views. three hotels and good mountain views in Machhermo. This afternoon we'll visit the Himalayan Rescue Association for a briefing on altitude sickness and what to look out for. Overnight at teahouse lodge.

• Day 8

  Machhermo to Gokyo (4790m) 04 hrs trek.

  Beyond Machhermo, the trail climbs a ridge for excellent views down the valley to Kangtenga and up the valley towards Cho-Oyu (8153 m). Beyond the ridge, the valley widens as the trail passes through Pangram at 4390 m. The route then descends to the riverbank before beginning the climb up to the terminal moraine of the Ngozumba glacier. This will be a steep climb on the moraine. Afterwards the trail levels out as it follows the valley past a second lake, known as Longponga (4690 m), where you can view the lama footprints, and then finally ascends a boulder-strewn path to Gokyo (4750 m.), situated on the edge of the third lake. Gokyo is a small settlement with a glacial lake. The lake and surrounding high, snow-capped peaks make this place one of the gems of the Khumbu region. Rest of the day to rest and explore locally. Overnight at a local teahouse lodge.

• Day 9

  Rest and acclimatisation day at Gokyo (4790m).

  After breakfast this morning we'll take the opportunity to explore the local area on a day hike. We'll head towards the fourth lake on the way to the fifth to enjoy the breathtaking views. This is great an opportunity to see Mount Everest in full, as well as Cho-Oyu, with the lake as a stunning backdrop. It's an impressive view. To the north, we can see Cho-Oyu Base Camp and the world’s largest glacier, Na-jumpa glacier. Remember to bring a bottle of water, some snacks, a hat, gloves, and sunglasses with you today. Later we return to Gokyo with your evening at leisure. Overnight at local teahouse lodge.

• Day 10

  Gokyo-Ri to Thangnak (4850m) 02-03 hrs trek.

  We'll make an early start today with a morning hike to Gokyo Ri to enjoy the sunrise views and breathtaking image of Everest, the world's highest peak, Cho-Oyu, the world’s 6th highest peak, and Makalu, the world’s 5th highest peak. From Gokyo Ri, we'll be able to see these great giants all at the same time, a pretty impressive view. Afterwards enjoying the sunrise views it's around an hour back to Gokyo for breakfast.  We'll then trek down to Thangnak, passing lakes and crossing a glacier en route. Overnight at a local teahouse lodge.

• Day 11

  Thangnak to Tshola Pass (5420m) to Dzonggla (4800m) 06 -07 hours trek.

  After breakfast, we begin the trek to the Cho-La (Tshola) pass, also known as Chhugyuma, at 5420 m. The pass is not difficult to cross, except in conditions of heavy snow, but it is steep and requires crossing a glacier on the eastern side. After crossing the Cho-La pass, the downhill trail takes us to Dzongla where we'll rest overnight. The lodge here has basic facilities, with very simple dormitory room, but it has a cosy dining hall. Overnight at local teahouse lodge.

• Day 12

  Dzongla to Lobuche (4910m) 02-03 hrs trek.

  From Dzongla the trail is quite gradual, winding around the hills amidst rugged scenery. The route follows the moraine of a glacier, with views of Kalapathar and Pumori before reaching Lobuche (4910 m) where we'll stop overnight. This is the last stop before the trail climbs to Everest Base Camp tomorrow. This is a short trek day but it's important to take the time to rest and acclimatise today for the unforgettable day planned for tomorrow. We'll be able to enjoy (weather permitting) the best view of Mount Nuptse from the lodge. Overnight at local teahouse lodge.

• Day 13

  Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (5316m) to Gorakshep (5140m) 07-08 hrs trek.

  Today we'll get an early start to being the trek to Gorekshep. We'll be crossing through an area with huge boulders and glaciers. The walk is pleasant and not overly strenuous, except for the high altitude. The trail is gentle for an hour, with only a few short, steep parts before reaching the moraine and glacier portion of today’s trek. It offers great views of the Khumbu glacier below, with striking scenery of the high, snow-capped mountains right before our eyes. After going through the moraine section, there is a short descent, which brings us to Gorakshep where we'll take a rest and then continue towards Everest Base Camp. For around two hours, the path is quite rough in some sections. If it's during the high climbing season we'll find Everest Base Camp is very lively! After time here, at the foot of mighty Everest, the highest mountain in the world, we'll retrace our steps and follow the trail back to Gorekshep. Overnight at local teahouse lodge.

• Day 14

  Gorakshep to Kalapathar to Dingboche (4410m) 05 hrs trek.

  Early this morning, we begin the hike to Kalapathar. We begin with a short easy section walking on a sandy field then a steep climb of around 45 minutes brings us to a near level field. The trek from here is gradual until we reach a rocky spot after around an hour, after which another steep half-hour climb brings us to the top. Reaching the top is another exhilarating achievement. The top of Kalapathar is a small, rocky ridge on the southwest of Mount Pumori. The view from here is beyond imagination, as Everest appears to be a stone’s throw away, between the summit of Nuptse and Lho-la pass and Lhotse to the back. The panoramic view from this spot is something to cherish, and it’s well worth the hard climb up. On a clear sunny day we'll have views of a vast array of mountains  reaching to the far horizon. To the south, the Khumbu glacier sweeps below us, and we'll also be able to see Everest Base Camp down below on the moraine of Khumbu glacier. It can get very windy here in the afternoons so, after time to enjoy the panoramic views, we'll descend back towards Gorakshep for breakfast. After breakfast, we'll trek down to Dingboche and retrace our journey to Dugla. From here, the trail splits, with the lower path leading to Pheriche. After crossing a small wooden bridge over the raging river, our route heads straight up the hill to reach an upper trail. Staying high above the valley floor, we pass the yak pasture at Dusa towards a chorten at the head of the Imja Valley. Dingboche is the only place in Khumbu where barley is grown at this high altitude. Overnight at a local teahouse lodge.

• Day 15

  Dingboche to Tengboche (3860m) 04 hrs trek.

  The trail from Dingboche descends towards the Imja Khola Valley and then crosses the Khumbu River. Following the trail downhill, it is easy to make a detour and visit the upper part of Pangboche and the village Gompa before we continue on to Tengboche where we'll rest overnight. Tengboche is a wonderful place to enjoy scenic views and to explore locally, including visiting famous Tengboche Monastery. In the afternoons there's a chance to see many lamas praying. Overnight at a local teahouse lodge.

• Day 16

  Tengboche to Namche Bazaaar (3446m) 05 hrs trek.

  From Tengboche the route steeply descends to Phunki Thangka through the pine and rhododendron forest then ascends towards the ridge, passing some small villages before it joins again at Shanasha and Kyanjuma. From here, it's a further two hours trek to reach Namche Bazaar. The rest of this afternoon is at leisure to explore locally. Overnight at a local teahouse lodge.

• Day 17

  Namche to Lukla (2840m) 04 hrs trek.

  This is our last day on trek and we'll take it leisurely to make the most of the beautiful scenic views and surrounding landscape. Apart from a few short uphill sections, the only long climb today will be just before Lukla, when the trail climbs for around 45 minutes from a place called Choplung. Reaching Lukla, there's time to rest, relax and explore the local area before a final dinner with your Sherpa crew and porters. Overnight at a local teahouse lodge.

• Day 18

  Fly Lukla to Ramechhap, drive to Kathmandu

  This morning it's time for the short flight, around 20 minutes, back to Ramechhap. Flights from Lukla are usually scheduled in the morning as in the afternoon the wind usually picks up and can cause delays. Enjoy the panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks during your flight. Arriving at Ramechhap, it's time for the scenic transfer drive of around 4-5 hours back to Kathmandu. After checking in to your hotel, the rest of your day and evening is at leisure to rest, relax, explore the local area and celebrate your achievement of reaching iconic Everest Base Camp! Overnight at your hotel.

• Day 19

  Full day guided sightseeing - Kathmandu.

  Today is a chance to explore some of the key cultural and heritage sites of Kathmandu. After your breakfast, you'll be met by your guide before heading to nearby Kathmandu Durbar Square, an impressive World Heritage Site and hugely important place in Nepalese history and culture. You'll be able to visit the ancient palace complex and the temple of the Living Goddess of Nepal , the Kumari. You'll also visit Hanuman Dhoka and Kasthamandap Temple. From here, we'll drive to Pashupatinath Temple, the holiest shrine for Hindus, situated on the banks of the holy Bagmati River and an important cremation site. We'll also visit Boudhnath Stupa, an important Tibetan Buddhist pilgrimage site and the centre of Tibetan pilgrimage in Nepal. The huge stupa is one of the largest dome stupas in the world and is surrounded by many small monasteries, shops and cafes. We'll also visit Patan, also known as the City of Fine Arts, just outside Kathmandu City where you'll be able to explore the spectacular Durbar Square and beautiful temples and palaces. After time to explore, we'll return to your hotel where the rest of your evening is at leisure to rest and relax, explore locally and do any last minute shopping before your departure tomorrow.

  
  

  There are also various options if you'd like to  add a short one or several days extension to your trip - perhaps a few days wildlife safari in Chitwan National Park or try some activities such as white-water rafting, zip lining or paragliding. Speak to one of our team and we'll be happy to help. Overnight at your  hotel in Kathmandu.

• Day 20

  Depart Kathmandu.

  This morning is free until time to check out and your transfer to the International Airport for your departure flight home or onward to your next destination.