Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass
Fancy trekking to Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and crossing Cho La Pass on a single go? We know it’s a yes, and that is why you’re reading this. Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass is a best-selling and preferred trek in the Everest region. It’s almost a complete Everest trek experience that even beginners can embark on. It runs for 15 days through the spectacular mountain views, valleys, glaciers, Sherpa villages, etc. Embarking on this ultimate adventure, you’ll come across four world’s highest mountains, high-altitude freshwater lakes, and a panoramic 5,420-meter-high mountain pass.

Everest Base Camp Trek is a 12-day long trek. Likewise, the Gokyo Lakes Trek also runs for a similar length. Hence, trekking to these two destinations can take more than twenty days. However, if you dare cross a more adventurous path via Cho La, you can do both treks in 15 days, with two rest days.
After guiding our clients multiple times here, we’ve decided to publish the Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via the Cho La Pass package. Hence, all the information here is solely from our firsthand experience. Also, we’ve attached a video link below that shows our recent trek in September 2024.
Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes- Trek Highlights
- A surreal view of the four highest mountains, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
- Stepping on the base camp of the world’s highest mountain, at 5,364 meters.
- Trek to turquoise Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri, the most panoramic destination.
- Crossing Cho La, at 5,420 meters, one of the highest mountain passes.
- Adventurous walk along the beautiful Sherpa villages, viewpoints, and landmarks.
- Thrilling flight to/from Lukla airport.
- Once-in-a-lifetime Everest experience, guided by a professional trekking guide from NepTrek.
Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass- Trek Cost
For you, we’ve set the most affordable price for this trek in the 2024/2025 season. Please note that the individual cost and group cost differ.
Do you want to request your preferred date and requirements? Please email us at mailtoneptrek@gmail.com.
Pax |
Cost Per Person (USD) | Availability | Want to book? |
1 | 1700 | Available | |
2-3 |
1680 | Available | Enquire Us |
4-5 | 1650 | Available | |
6-7 |
1630 | Available | Enquire Us |
8-10 | 1600 | Available |
Cost Details
Why Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass in 2024?
This 15-day adventure in the Everest region can be an exciting once-in-a-lifetime experience for you. Thus, to guide you properly, we’ve listed three significant elements that make this journey wholesome. Moreover, we’ve attached a detailed itinerary, additional information from the trek, and panoramic photos and videos.
We hope all the details below let you decide whether this trek is best for you.
Adventurous journey to Everest Base Camp
The most popular destination of Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek is the Everest Base Camp. This landmark is the epitome of high-altitude trekking. Thus, trekking here offers a great sense of accomplishment.
The Mount Everest Base Camp sits at 5,364 meters, the highest of any 8000-meter tall mountain. And on the 9th day morning, you’ll trek to Kala Patthar. It’s the highest altitude you’ll reach on this entire trek. With clear weather, you’ll see the crystal clear panorama of Everest and Nuptse.

Starting the trek from Lukla, you’ll trek for eight days and 65 km to reach the base camp. In between, you’ll trek along beautiful landscapes full of elegant mountain panoramas, pine forests, tall suspension bridges over cascading rivers, and traditional Sherpa villages.
Embarking on this journey lets you catch the sight of three of the world’s highest mountains. Mt. Everest is the highest, and you’ll also see Mt. Makalu (fifth highest) and Mt. Lhotse (fourth highest) mountains. Adjacent to these, you’ll see Mt. Ama Dablam, Pumori, Nuptse, Changatse, Cholatse, Kongde, and Thamserku.
Hence, you’ll complete the first part of Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass upon reaching Everest Base Camp.
Gokyo Lakes- Turquoise freshwater lakes
In the Everest, Gokyo Valley is among the most beautiful and panoramic landscapes. And while on Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass, you’ll trek to beautiful Gokyo Valley after hiking to the base camp.
The major attractions in Gokyo Valley are the Gokyo Lakes and Gokyo Ri. The 19 lakes in the valley are among the world’s highest-altitude seated freshwater lakes. What makes them exquisite is the watercolor, the turquoise blue.

For the sunrise/sunset over the mighty mountains, you’ll trek to Gokyo Ri. It’s a panoramic vantage point at 5,357 meters. From the top, you’ll see Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu, the three highest mountains. Moreover, you’ll get an aerial glimpse of Gokyo Lakes I, II, and III.
You’ll stay overnight at a tea house on the shore of Gokyo Lake. This experience is wholesome. And if you want to chill by the lake on a hammock, you can request one or mention it while booking this trek. Imagine sitting in a dining hall, savoring your favorite meal, and gazing at the waves of a turquoise lake. How cool does it sound? Yes. Gokyo offers this surreal experience!
Cho La Pass: A high mountain pass at 5,420 meters
Cho La is a straightforward yet adventurous high mountain pass in the Everest region. While on the Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes, you’ll cross Cho La after trekking to the base camp, and reach the Gokyo Valley.
This mountain pass sits at 5,420 meters, one of the highest passes in the Himalayas. However, despite being this high, crossing Cho La is easy, and even beginners accomplish this feat. Thus, if you’re a beginner trekker, join our Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass in the 2024/25 season (Autumn/Spring).

Crossing this pass takes 3-4 hours, depending on how well you trek. You’ll trek from Dzongla instead of arduous uphill climb from Thangnak, in clockwise. Hence, it’ll be easy to hike to the top by comfortably climbing one or two short steeper sections.
Before reaching the top, you’ll trek for thirty minutes on the glacier. Hence, depending on the time you plan this trek, you may need micro spikes for ice and snow.
In short, crossing Cho La Pass is fun, adventurous, easy, and a great feat! Embark this trek with us.
Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass Itinerary
Starting with a flight to Lukla, this trek runs for 15 days. It includes two rest days, one in Namche and one in Dingboche. It is the standard itinerary we’ve been following for a while now. However, we welcome your customization on the trek itinerary.
Day 2: Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (7.4 km, 6 hours, 3,440 meters)
After breakfast at the tea house in Phakding, you'll trek to Namche Bazaar. It's an exciting day on the entire trek as you'll reach Namche Bazaar, "the gateway to Everest".
Leaving Phakding, you'll trek to TokTok and Benkar. You'll then cross a suspension bridge and trek to Monjo, a beautiful hamlet.
You'll stop for the trek permit and luggage checking at the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park entry point. Following, a lunch stop at Jorsalle awaits you, which is a 10-minute walk from the national park checkpost.
After lunch, you'll trek to Larcha Dovan, cross Hilary Bridge, and ascend to Top Danda (Hill). Two gradual hours from Hillary Bridge takes you to Namche Bazaar.
Upon reaching Namche, you'll settle in at a tea house.
Day 3: Rest day at Namche. Acclimatization hike to Hotel Everest View (3,880 meters, 4 hours)
Today, you'll stop at Namche Bazaar to rest and acclimate to the altitude. Hence, to acclimate properly, you'll hike up to Hotel Everest View in Syangboche at 3,880 meters. It'll be a four-hour hike after the breakfast.
You'll visit the Sagarmatha National Park area and get the first glimpse of Mt. Everest. Also, you'll get the beautiful sights of Mt. Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Kongde, Lhotse, and Nuptse.
You'll climb to Syangboche, visit Sagarmatha Next, and hike to Hotel Everest View. At the hotel's courtyard, you can eat brunch with the panoramic Everest view. Also, there's a grand piano you can play if you know how to play it.
After spending quality time at the hotel, you'll return to the tea house in Namche for lunch. For the rest of the day, you can visit the cafe in the town. Or if you don't know what to do during the rest in Namche, read our complete blog here.
You'll settle in at a tea house for overnight accommodation.
Day 4: Trek from Namche to Tengboche/Debuche (11 km, 3,860 meters, 6 hours)
The beautiful trek to Tengboche starts after breakfast at the tea house in Namche.
An hour's gradual walk from Namche takes you to Sansa. Until this landmark, you'll get an awe-inspiring view of Mt. Ama Dablam and Lhotse. Past Sansa, another forty-five minutes downhill walk takes you to Pungi Thanka. Here, you'll stop for lunch.
After lunch at Pungi Thanka, you'll ascend to Tengboche. For all, you'll ascend for two hours.
Upon reaching Tengboche, you can visit Tengboche Monastery, one of the largest and oldest Buddhist monasteries in the Everest region.
Since there are few tea houses in Tengboche, it's often challenging to find a tea house for accommodation during the peak trekking season. However, if available, you'll be accommodated in a tea house in Tengboche. Mostly, you'll walk 30 more minutes to Debuche.
Overnight at Hotel Good Luck in Debuche.
Day 5: Trek from Tengboche/Debuche to Dingboche (9.1 km, 4,410 meters, 4 hours)
You'll start the trek from Debuche after breakfast at the tea house.
The most beautiful section of today's trek awaits you with an elegant mountain panorama and a cascading river. You'll cross a bridge over the Imja River. And in the backdrop, Mt. Ama Dablam stands elegantly tall.
Moreover, the trekking route to Pangboche from the bridge is among the best in Everest Base Camp Trek.
You'll trek to Somare via Pangboche. Beautiful mountains like Thamserku, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse remain in sight throughout.
If you prefer to stop for lunch, you'll stop at a tea house in Somare. If not, Dingboche is just two hours away from Somare. You can trek to Dingboche by lunchtime.
The entrance to Dingboche has two beautiful stupas with prayer flags dancing with the wind.
You'll settle in at a tea house in Dingboche.
Day 6: Rest day in Dingboche. Acclimatization hike to Nangkartshang Peak (4,800 meters, 3 hours)
Rest day at Dingboche is a must. Hence, you'll stop for a day here for adequate rest and acclimatization.
For acclimatization, you'll hike to Nangkartshang Peak and climb up to 4800 meters. From this peak, you'll see Mt. Makalu (fifth highest) mountain alongside Lhotse, Island Peak, Cholatse, and Ama Dablam.
You'll start the acclimatization hike after breakfast at the tea house. For lunch, you'll return to the tea house after completing the hike.
After returning to the tea house, you can take a hot shower. And for the day, the most popular activity in Dingboche is to visit Cafe 4410. The cafe serves the best coffee and bakery stuff. Moreover, they show a movie every day that is worth watching. It may get crowded during the season, but the vibe here will be unmatched as every passionate trekker shares their stories and even plays cards in groups.
Overnight at the tea house in Dingboche.
Day 7: Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche (6.6 km, 5,030 meters, 4 hours)
Edging towards the Everest Base Camp today, you'll trek to Lobuche. It sits at 5,030 meters, 4.4 km away from Dingboche. As most sections on the route are straightforward, you'll comfortably complete the trek.
Leaving Dingboche after breakfast, you'll trek adjacent to Cholatse, a beautiful mountain. The almost-flat-like trail to Thugla offers easy walking.
You'll stop for lunch or light brunch at Thugla. Or you can trek to Lobuche by lunchtime.
Past Thugla, you'll trek to Thugla Pass, the section most trekkers consider arduous. The climb to Thugla Pass lasts for 40 minutes, a gradual walk. At the top is a memorial of deceased climbers and adventurers over time in the Everest region.
From Thugla Pass, you'll trek forty minutes further to Lobuche and settle in at Oxygen Lodge for overnight accommodation.
Evening at Lobuche becomes beautiful with the sunset over Nuptse.
Day 8: Trek from Lobuche to Gorak Shep (4 km, 5,140 meters, 3 hours). Trek to Everest Base Camp and return to Gorak Shep
With early breakfast at a tea house in Lobuche, you'll start the trek to Gorak Shep.
The first section of the route is almost flat, and the remaining section is over the glacier moraines. Walking over glaciers for 40 minutes with a crisp view of Mt. Pumori, you'll reach Gorak Shep. Throughout the trek, you'll get a wholesome view of Changatse and Nuptse.
You'll leave your backpacks at the tea house, have a light lunch, grab a packed lunch, and trek to Everest Base Camp. To reach the base camp, you'll trek for 1 hour. If the weather remains fair, you'll stop at the base camp for an hour.
You'll then return to the tea house in Gorak Shep.
Overnight accommodation at Himalayan Lodge in Gorak Shep.
Day 9: Hike to Kala Patthar (5,644 meters, 2 km, 4 hours). Return to Gorak Shep. Trek to Dzongla (8 km, 4,800 meters, 5 hours)
To get the best close-up view of Mt. Everest, you'll trek to Kala Patthar viewpoint, at 4:30 am. Also, you'll enjoy the sunrise over the mighty Himalayas from Kala Patthar's viewpoint.
From the top, on a clear weather day, you'll get an unobstructed view of Everest, Nuptse, Changatse, Pumori, and other elegant mountains. Moreover, you'll glimpse Khumbu Glacier and Icefall.
After experiencing sunrise from Kala Patthar, you'll trek down to Gorak Shep. At the tea house, you'll have the breakfast. Moreover, you'll prepare to trek to Dzongla via Lobuche.
Near Thugla Pass, you'll take a right turn, leaving the Everest Base Camp Trek route. From here, you'll trek for two more hours to Dzongla. Throughout the trek to Dzongla, a beautiful glacier lake, and Cholatse mountain remain in sight.
You'll settle in at Maison Sherpa Lodge for overnight accommodation.
Day 10: Trek from Dzongla to Thangnak via Cho La Pass (8 km, 4700 meters, 6 hours)
Today, you'll start the most adventurous walk of the 15-day Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass. Hence, you'll start the trek early to cross the pass early.
After breakfast at 5:30 am, you'll leave Dzongla for Cho La Pass. Till the first arduous climb of the pass, you'll trek for an hour on a decent trail.
Crossing two short, steep uphill climbs, you'll reach the main glacier section of Cho La. Usually, crossing this glacier takes 30-40 minutes. However, if it snows or rain, it can take an hour.
Before reaching the top of Cho La, you'll climb a short, arduous section. And once you reach the top, you'll get a sense of accomplishment. Moreover, the best mountain panorama around leaves you in awe.
Recently, the Sagarmatha National Park committee has installed a charging station at Cho La Pass. Here, while spending quality time, you can charge your mobile devices, camera battery, and powerbanks for free.
From the top, it's a sharp descent for 30 minutes. Also, most of the sections are slippery with peebles and loose rocks.
A gradual walk of two hours takes you to Thangnak. Here, you'll settle in at Tashi Friendship Lodge for overnight accommodation.
Day 11: Trek from Thangnak to Gokyo via Ngozumpa Glacier (3.5 km, 4,750 meters, 3 hours)
You'll leave Thangnak after breakfast at the tea house.
Thirty minutes walk past Thangnak takes you to the glacier point. From here, you'll cross Ngozumpa Glacier for an hour. The panoramic view of Mt. Cho Oyu (the 10th highest mountain) remains in sight.
Upon reaching Gokyo, you'll settle in at Fitzroy or Eco Lodge. These tea houses offer the most panoramic view of Gokyo Lakes.
During the evening, you can hike to Gokyo Fourth Lake.
Overnight at a tea house in Gokyo.
Day 12: Sunrise hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters, 4 hours). Trek down to Gokyo Lakes, Trek to Dole (14 km, 4,038 meters, 5 hours)
For the ultimate Gokyo experience, you'll hike to Gokyo Ri in the morning. Mainly, watching the sunrise over the Himalayas from Gokyo Ri is a popular activity.
From Gokyo Ri, on a clear weather day, you'll see panoramic mountains like Everest, Nuptse, Lobuche, Cho Oyu, etc. Moreover, you'll get a panoramic view of Ngozumpa glacier and turquoise Gokyo Lakes (I, II, and III).
After spending quality time at Gokyo Ri, you'll trek to the tea house by the lake. With breakfast, you'll prepare to leave for Dole, today's destination.
En route to Dole, you'll trek along the inspiring landscapes, hamlets, and mountains. First, leaving Gokyo, you'll trek along the shore of Gokyo lakes, descend to Machherma, and further to Dole.
You'll settle in for overnight accommodation at Comfort Inn Lodge in Dole.
Day 13: Trek to Namche Bazaar (11 km, 3,440 meters, 5 hours)
The first part of today's walk is a complete downhill walk to Phortse Thanga. And from Phortse Thanga, you'll climb to Mong La, a hilltop lunch place.
You'll trek along a serene pine forest, accompanied by the waterfalls and chirps of birds. The panoramic view of Mt. Ama Dablam, Tengboche Monastery, and Mt. Thamserku makes the walk memorable.
With lunch at Mong La, you'll descend to Sansa and trek to Namche. A slow-paced walk from Sansa to Namche is two hours.
Upon reaching Namche Bazaar, you'll settle in at Hotel Everest Lodge.
During the evening, you can visit the cafes or the pubs for a few drinks to celebrate the trek's success.
Day 14: Trek to Lukla (17 km, 2,860 meters, 7 hours)
After breakfast at a tea house in Namche, you'll prepare for the return to Lukla. You'll trek for seven hours, completing 17 kilometers.
You'll stop for lunch at Phakding. After Phakding, the trail to Lukla is gradually uphill. Hence, the final hour can get tiring.
Upon reaching Lukla, you'll settle in at The Nest Lodge.
We recommend you celebrate the trek's success with your trek guides and porters with a happy meal and a few drinks. Also, you can tip the guides and porters, which is 10% of the trek cost.
Day 15: Flight from Lukla to Kathmandu/Ramechhap (25 minutes)
With breakfast at the tea house, you'll take a morning flight to Kathmandu from Lukla. If your flight from Lukla is to Manthali Airport, you'll get a private vehicle transfer to Kathmandu.
Upon reaching Kathmandu by the flight, you'll get a private vehicle transfer to the hotel.
With this, your Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass ends.
However, if you want to extend your Nepal stay with further tours, contact our tour manager.
Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass- Essential Trek Informations
Now that you’ve got the idea of the trek itinerary and other elements of the trek, we present the essential information regarding the trek. What we try to do here is put the most common terms like meals and accommodation, trek permits, flights, guides, trek safety, and more.
However, for details on everything about the trek, we’ve listed separate FAQ sections.
Meals and Accommodation
The tea houses in the Everest region offer the best meals and comfortable accommodations.
Upon your arrival in Nepal, you’ll get a welcome dinner from us. Moreover, you’ll get a three-star accommodation in Kathmandu.
You’ll get 15 breakfasts, 15 lunches, and 14 dinners. All main course meals will be of your choice.
The breakfast includes toast with fried eggs, yak butter, potato, noodle soup, Tibetan bread, muesli with yak yogurt, porridge, chapati, fruit juice, etc. You’ll get a hot drink for breakfast, with choices like black tea, ginger lemon tea, milk tea, and coffee.
Lunch and dinner meals include a lot of choices. Pizza, burgers, sandwiches, steak, fried rice, fried noodles, Nepali Dal Bhat, Sherpa stew, dumplings, etc. are the most popular meals.
Note: All the meals the tea house serves are locally grown or bought by helicopters, ensuring trekkers get fresh and hygienic meals.
All the tea houses we use on Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass offer the best accommodation with clean rooms and warm beds. Most of them provide twin-sharing rooms for accommodation.
At lower altitudes, you’ll get attached bathrooms. However, this option is limited as you trek past Namche Bazaar. Thus, if you want a room with an attached bathroom, you must pay an additional USD 15 each day.
Trek Permits
To trek to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass, you’ll need two trek permits. Collectively, we’ve put details of both the trek permits under the Everest Base Camp Trek Permits blog you can read.
In short, you’ll need a Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and a Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permit. Both trek permits are available at the trekker’s checkpost in Monjo and the municipality office in Lukla.
Together, these two trek permits (from September 2024) cost Rs. 6000, previously Rs. 5000.
Note: The trek permit fees are included in the trek cost.
Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu Flights
You’ll get a 30-minute scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla and start the trek from Lukla. However, during the busiest trekking season, all the flights shift to Manthali airport. Here are some things you must be aware of the flight to Lukla.

For instance, if you want to join Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes in September, you’ll get a flight to Lukla from Kathmandu. Also, you’ll get your return flight to Kathmandu airport. However, from October to December ( September 20, 2024), all the flights to Lukla operate from Manthali Airport. Hence, you’ll need to take a 5-hour drive (midnight) from Kathmandu to Ramechhap and fly to Lukla in the morning.
Similarly, in Spring, from March to May, almost all flights from Kathmandu to Lukla shift to Manthali airport.
The primary reason for this is to avoid the air traffic in Kathmandu. From Manthali, all the flights to Lukla operate smoothly.
Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes- Trek Difficulty
Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass isn’t a challenging trekking. Having said this, it still has some degree of difficulty, particularly if you’re a beginner with no prior trek experience.
Ascending Thugla Pass, climbing to Kala Patthar, and crossing Cho La are the arduous sections on this trek. Due to the steepness and glacier moraines, walking here can get tiring. Also, on some days, you need to trek for 7-8 hours. Hence, you may get tired a lot during the long walking days.
But, with adequate physical fitness and a proper mindset, you can overcome the difficulty and complete the trek.
Travel Insurance
We demand proof of travel insurance if you want to join us on the Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass. The highest altitude you’ll hike on this trek is 5,645 at Kala Patthar. Hence, we suggest you purchase travel insurance with helicopter coverage up to 5,600 meters.
Altitude sickness is common among trekkers in the Everest region. Sometimes, trekkers get injured or fracture their hands and limbs on the glaciers. Moreover, there have been instances of yak and mule attacks, leading to a rapid rescue of trekkers.
An on-time helicopter rescue can save your life if you get altitude sickness, injuries, and other physical sickness during the trek. Hence, during emergencies, a helicopter evacuation is a must.
The helicopter rescue fees in the Everest region cost up to $6000. Hence, paying this amount from your pocket may not be possible or becomes too much. However, having travel insurance with helicopter coverage can cover the rescue cost. Moreover, the travel insurance pays your hospitalization costs, medication bills, and other associated expenses.
Thus, we recommend you purchase travel insurance and provide us with a copy of it as proof.
Note: Travel insurance is essential if you want to trek with us, particularly in the Everest region.

Altitude Sickness: Symptoms and Prevention
All the popular destinations in Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass are over 5,000 meters. The base camp sits at 5,364 meters, Cho La Pass at 5,420 meters, and Gokyo Ri at 5,370 meters. Also, for the most of this trek, you’ll trek over 4,500 meters altitude.
The altitude you’ll reach on this trek is prone to altitude sickness. Due to the thin air and low pressure, trekkers experience signs of altitude sickness ranging from mild to severe.
Headache is the most common symptom you’ll experience if you get altitude sickness. However, with just a headache, there’s no need to worry.
Headaches, nausea, and loss of appetite together are signs of altitude sickness. If the symptoms are severe, you’ll experience difficulty breathing.
If these symptoms persist, you must stop at the same altitude for a few days. By doing so, your body adjusts to the altitude, and the symptoms disappear. However, you can’t trek further to a higher altitude if the symptoms persist. If you ascend further with the sickness, you’ll get High Altitude Cerebral/Pulmonary Oedema. These are severe and can take your life in hours.
How to prevent it?
Here are some ways to prevent altitude sickness:
- Rehydrate frequently with oral rehydration salts (drink at least 3 liters of water each day)
- Eat adequate balanced meals
- Avoid consuming meat products during the trek
- Avoid caffeinated drinks and alcoholic beverages
- Consume Diamox (with consultation with a physician)
Even after practicing all these, and you still get altitude sickness, consult with your trek guide. He’ll decide whether to continue the trek or abort it with a helicopter rescue.
Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes- Weather, Temperature, and Best Time
Ideal weather conditions are a must when trekking to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass: the primary reason is the ultimate panoramic viewing experience.
Spring and Autumn are the best times for the Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass. These two are the seasons for trekking in Nepal due to clear weather, rain-free days, panoramic snow-capped mountain views, and stable temperatures. However, if you prefer to trek peacefully to Everest Base Camp, late August and early September are the best times.
Weather and Temperature in Spring (March, April, and May)
The weather in the Spring months, from March to May, is one of a kind. The rain-free days throughout the Spring make it the best time to trek to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes. With no rain comes no clouds, ultimately favoring the all-day crystal clear viewing.
Early March remains cold and dry. However, in April and May, the temperature rises and humidity increases. And towards the end of May, it starts raining. The temperature at the base camp and higher altitude places, including Gokyo Valley, remains moderately cold throughout the Spring. However, the lower regions remain warm.
For an in-depth guide, read our blogs on weather and temperature at Everest Base Camp during the Spring months, in March, April, and May.
Weather and Temperature in Autumn (September, October, and November)
Autumn is the best time to trek to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes. Thus, it’s the busiest time as trekkers flood in high numbers, particularly in October and November.
In early September, even the high-altitude regions remain green and fresh. However, in October and November, with the cold, the green bushes turn brown. However, the sky remains utterly clear all day. With good visibility all day, you’ll have amazing mountain panorama views. Also, the rain-free days in October and November make the walk comfortable.
The lowest in Autumn will be -15˚C at Gorak Shep. Likewise, the high altitude places remain freezing, with nighttime temperatures averaging -8 to -10˚C. The lower regions like Lukla and Namche remain cold with daytime temperatures of 6-7˚C.
Read our Everest Base Camp Weather and Temperature blog we’ve made for each month, September, October, and November.
Weather and Temperature in Winter (December, January, and February)
Weather at Everest Base Camp becomes one of the best in winter. However, the temperature has a significant impact on trekking here. Hence, the trek is doable only till the end of December.
The foremost clear weather in December provides a clear viewing experience of Mt. Everest and other adjacent mountains in the region. Moreover, with clear weather days, you’ll fly to Lukla without any flight delays.
The freezing temperature in winter makes it challenging for trekking to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes. Moreover, if it snows, crossing Cho La will be almost impossible. Even the daytime temperature falls below freezing point. And the nighttime temperature can get to -17 ˚C.
Thus, winter is not a recommended time for Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass.
Weather and Temperature in Summer (June, July, and August)
Despite the summer being humid and warm, it’s not a good time to trek to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes. It rains, overcast covers the mountains, and flights from Kathmandu to Lukla don’t operate at all.
The places like Lukla and Namche warm up with daytime temperatures of 20-22˚C. Moreover, the nighttime temperature won’t be near freezing.
Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass- FAQs
Trek Booking and Cancelling Policy
How much advance payment do I have to make for trek confirmation?
To book the trek, we ask for at least 25-30% of the total trek cost from you. For the remaining, you can pay after coming to Nepal before starting the trek.
Once you decide to transfer the advance payment, we'll send you our bank account details.
Note: You may be subjected to pay the service charge (from the bank side) while making the bank transfer. Hence, the service charge won't add to the total trek cost.
Will I get a refund after canceling the trek?
Yes. You'll get a refund even after canceling the trek. However, we have our policies regarding the refund after cancelation.
- If you cancel the trek one month before the trek, you'll get a 50% refund. We keep 50% as an operational fee.
- If you cancel the trek a week before the trek, you'll get a 20% refund. We keep 80% of the advance payment to compensate for the tea house booking and flight ticket fee.
- If you cancel the trek a day before the trek, you won't get a refund.
- For various reasons (altitude sickness, injuries, and personal reasons), if you cancel the trek after starting it, you must pay the remaining trek fee.
Can I use the advance payment for other trekking after canceling for a particular trek?
Yes. You can use your advance payment for a trek as a credit for other trekking. However, the amount of credit depends on when you inform us about the trekking cancellation. Hence, we suggest you read our trek canceling and refund policy.
What will be the steps after booking the trek?
Once you transfer the advance payment, you'll get a confirmation letter within 24 hours.
For further information, you'll get timely updates via email and WhatsApp. You'll get a detailed trek itinerary, packing list, physical fitness instructions, and more.
Arrivals and Visas
What duration should I choose for my Nepal tourist visa?
We recommend you pay for at least a 30 day tourist visa in Nepal.
The trek runs for 15 days if everything goes as per the plan. However, if the weather becomes poor for the flights, you may have to wait a few more days to fly to and from Lukla. Also, after completing the trek, you may wish to extend the trip to other relaxing tours like Chitwan Jungle Safari. Moreover, you can Kathmandu City Tour around heritage sites for a few days.
Hence, a 30 day visa gives you ample time to trek and explore some beautiful cities in Nepal.
How much do I need to pay for a Nepali tourist visa?
The Nepali tourist visa fees are different for different durations.
The least number of days you can apply for the visa is 15. It costs USD 30 for the 15-day visa. If you want to apply for 30 day travel visa, it costs you USD 50. Similarly, the 90-day visa costs USD 125.
For more about the Nepal tourist visa and visa extension, follow this link.
Note: The trek cost you pay to us doesn't include the visa fee.
Transportation
Are my Kathmandu to Lukla flight tickets included in the trek cost?
Yes. You'll get two-way flight tickets included in the trek cost. However, if you wish to fly on a helicopter from Kathmandu to Lukla, you must pay an additional fare. Lukla, being the scariest airport, some trekkers prefer flying on a helicopter than on an airline.
We suggest you provide us with the details of whether you want an airline flight or a helicopter to Lukla.
How will I reach Ramechhap if the flights are from Manthali airport?
Usually, during the trekking season, most flights to Lukla operate from Manthali airport. Hence, to reach Manthali airport, we'll provide you with a private vehicle drive from Kathmandu to Manthali airport.
We'll start the drive at midnight to catch the flight in the morning. It'll be a 5-6 hours comfortable drive along the highway.
Note: You don't need to pay additional cost for the private transportation to and from Kathmandu/Manthali.
Please read our blog, Kathmandu to Ramechhap, to learn more about the road trip to Manthali airport.
What will be the next steps if the flight is canceled or postponed?
With poor weather conditions in Lukla, the flights can get canceled or postponed. Hence, to deal with such situations, we request you to plan this trek with at least 2-3 buffer days. In buffer days, you can do either of:
- Wait for the weather to clear
- City tour or heritage sites tour
- Take the helicopter to Lukla if the weather becomes flyable for the helicopter
- Plan other trekking like Langtang Valley Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Can I take a helicopter from Kathmandu to Lukla instead of the regular airline flight?
Absolutely. If you don't want to fly to Lukla on an aircraft, you can take a helicopter from Kathmandu to Lukla. Although the helicopter fare to Lukla is expensive, flying on one would provide the utmost comfort, luxury, and scenic flight.
It'll be affordable to fly on a group joining flight where you'll share the fleet fare per head. Hence, for a helicopter flight, you must give us a confirmation on whether to take a helicopter or a flight to Lukla. So that we can find a group joining flight on your preferred date.
Can I start the trek by driving from Kathmandu to Salleri?
It would be an excellent choice if you plan to start the Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes, with a drive from Kathmandu to Salleri. One advantage of starting the trek with a drive is that your body acclimates well to the altitude. Second, you'll experience the people, culture, and lifestyles before entering Lukla and Phakding.
Moreover, the route from Salleri to Thamdanda, Bupsa, Paiya, and Phakding is serene, elegant, and peaceful. However, during the season, with the traffic of mules, the off-beat trail often becomes muddy and slippery.
Also, if you prefer this trek with a drive, you don't need to worry about the poor weather and flights to Lukla.
Meals and Accommodation
Are the meals during the trek hygienic and gluten-free?
Yes. Every meal the tea houses serve is hygienic and gluten-free.
Most tea houses have their green house where they grow fresh leaves and vegetables. Those who don't have green house rely on fresh delivery by helicopters.
Will I get vegetarian meals on the trek?
Being a vegetarian on the trek is best, and we advise our clients to avoid consuming meat throughout the trek.
You'll get a meal menu from which you can order any of your choice. Hence, you can have vegetarian meals from the menu.
Are the meals included in the trek cost?
Yes. You'll get one meal item on each main course. On a day, you'll get a breakfast, a lunch, and a dinner. Moreover, you'll get a hot drink of your choice for breakfast. But you must pay for the hot drinks other than those we provide in the breakfast.
Similarly, you must pay for every additional meal in each main course.
Are there any cafes and restaurants where I can go and eat during the trek?
Usually, during the trek days, we tend to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the tea house where we stay. But, on the rest days, during the afternoon, visiting cafes and restaurants are the best activities.
While in Namche, you can visit bars, cafes, and even massage parlors. You can also enjoy the live rock band at The Hungry Yak Bar. Himalayan Java, Sherpa Barista, and Fire Pizza are popular places to visit.
While resting in Dingboche, you can visit Cafe 4410. Here, they serve the best coffee and bakery items. Moreover, they stream movies and documentaries for hours and you can watch them for free. Also, you'll find other trekkers playing cards, sharing their stories, and more.
At Lobuche, you can visit a coffee shop and bakery, which boasts "the world's highest bakery". The menu is quite expensive but the experience it offers is unparalleled. With the panoramic view of Mt. Nuptse, you can enjoy a coffee sip.
What is a twin-sharing room?
A twin-sharing room has two beds. They come with and without attached bathrooms. During the trek, we usually provide a twin-sharing room for two trekkers.
The beds will be neat with warm blankets and pillows.
Can I get a private room with attached bathrooms on the trek?
Yes. If you want a private room with attached bathrooms, you'll get it. However, you've to pay an additional $20 each day for this benefit.
Here's what you'll get with the $20 room:
- hot shower
- phone/powerbank recharge
Trek Guides and Porters
How many trek guides will be there in a group?
The number of trekking guides depends on the number of trekkers in a group. Usually, we provide 6 trekkers: 1 trekking guide. However, we assign one assistant guide to a group of more than seven trekkers.
Note: All the group leaders and assistant guides will be licensed and first aid responder certified.
Does my trek guide speak English?
Yes. All our guides are fluent in English speaking. Hence, with a fluent English-speaking guide, you'll have better communication. Also, our guides have extensive knowledge of the Everest region.
Thus, on the trek, feel free to ask them questions about the trek, mountains, and the history of climbing in the Himalayas.
How experienced will be my trek guide?
You'll get an experienced trekking guide for Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass. Since the trek is long and challenging at times, only an experienced trek guide can guide you properly and complete the trek successfully. Also, our experienced trekking guide will take good care of you and the group.
Note: You'll get a trekking guide who's been to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes on multiple occasions.
Do my trek guide and porter have insurance?
Yes. All our trekking guides and porters have health insurance. Particularly, while trekking and guiding, our trek guides and porters can get injured. Also, they may get altitude sickness at higher altitudes. Thus, we buy insurance for them to protect their lives during emergencies.
Do I need to buy flight tickets for the trek guide and porter?
No. You don't need to buy the Kathmandu-Lukla flight tickets for the trek guide and porter. We'll buy the flight ticket for the trek guide. Your trek guide finds a trekking porter in Lukla. Hence, only you and your trek guide will fly from Kathmandu.
Do I need to tip my trek guide and porter?
Yes. After finishing the trek, we encourage you to tip your guide and porter in Lukla.
Tipping to the trek guide and porter is a way of expressing "thank you". They work hard during the trek to keep you safe and make the trek experience wholesome.
There's no standard tipping amount. However, the minimum amount you can tip to your trek guide and porter is USD 150 each.
Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes- Trek Difficulty
Can a beginner trek to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass?
Absolutely. Many beginner trekkers have finished this trek with us in recent times. Every client we guided over time has completed this trek, without any physical issues or altitude sickness.
On this trek, you'll get two rest days for acclimatization. Moreover, with a fixed short-distanced itinerary, each day on the trek, you'll trek for 4-5 hours.
Also, there are very few demanding sections where you'll experience difficulty and tiredness. However, with our experienced trek guide, guiding you, you'll overcome the challenges and enjoy the trek.
Are there any age and health limitations for this trek?
Yes. Despite being a moderately challenging trek, it's still not suitable for various groups.
Here are some individuals, who we think are not the best fit for this trek.
- Children below age 10 and seniors over 70 years
- Pregnant women
- A trekker with blood pressure issues and chronic health issues (including the heart)
Physical Fitness and Trek Preparations
How can I maintain physical fitness for the trek?
Here are our recommendations for fitness exercises, particularly for the trek:
- Cardio exercises (cycling, jogging, running, swimming)
- Endurance exercises like moderate weight lifting
- One or two day-long hikes before joining the trek
How big a backpack do I need to carry for the trek?
Since it's a 15-day trek, you'll need a significant amount of clothing and trek gear. Hence, carrying all in a backpack would be heavy and tiresome.
On this trek, you'll get a trek porter who'll carry most of your backpack. We'll provide you with a duffle bag to put your clothes and essentials for the trek.
We recommend bringing a 20-30 liter backpack to carry water bottles, snacks, and handy stuff during the trek.
What is the packing list for Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes?
The packing list for the Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass depends on the time you trek. However, the packing items remain almost the same for all seasons.
If you plan this trek in August, September, June, and July, you can wear shorts till Lobuche. However, in other months, you must wear proper gear like a jacket, thermals, and sleeping bag.
For a complete backpacking idea, visit our Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek blog.
Should I bring snacks or buy them on the trek?
We recommend you bring the snacks and not buy them on the trek. There are a few reasons for our suggestion.
First, you can bring various snacks, including energy drinks, shots, and more. And you won't find much stuff on the trek.
Moreover, the snacks are expensive during the trek.
Health and Trek Safety
I'm a female trekker. Can I join this trek solo?
Yes. We've guided many female trekkers to Everest Base Camp.
For your comfort, we'll send you a female trekking guide if you prefer over a male trek guide.
What if I get altitude sickness during the trek?
What we try to do on the trek is to prevent you from getting altitude sickness. We'll set a pace and remind you to drink water, get adequate sleep, and rest at Namche and Dingboche for adequate acclimatization.
However, it all depends on how your body reacts to the altitude. For some trekkers, even after taking all caution, they end up getting altitude sickness.
If you get altitude sickness, the first thing will be your trek guide assessing the situation. If your symptoms are mild, you'll recover it within a day. However, if the symptoms persist, you'll get a horse ride to a lower altitude. However, you'll get an on-time helicopter rescue if the sickness worsens.
Note: You'll need travel insurance to cover helicopter rescue costs.
How safe are the flights to Lukla?
Despite being labeled as the "world's most dangerous airport", flying in an airliner to Lukla is very safe. Almost every trekker in the Everest region takes a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla.
All the flight crashes and issues that happened in Lukla in the past were on the cargo flights. There haven't been any human casualties whatsoever in the last decade.
If you're scared of taking an airliner, we suggest you take a helicopter from Kathmandu to Lukla. We'll find a group joining flights to you at the most affordable rates.
Do I need to buy travel insurance for this trek?
Yes. Travel insurance with helicopter rescue coverage of 5,600 meters is a must for Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass.
If you get altitude sickness or injuries during the trek, a helicopter is a must for quick evacuation. And, in the Everest region, the helicopter rescue fee is expensive. Hence, paying for helicopter rescue with your money puts you in a difficult situation.
However, with helicopter coverage by the insurance, you'll get an on-time helicopter rescue. Moreover, the insurance covers hospitalization and other medical costs.
Will I have access to safe drinking water on the trek?
Yes. Drinking water you'll get on the trek will be safe to drink. The tea houses serve clean and safe drinking water from the running tap. However, we advise you to put chlorine tablets to purify water.
A bit expensive, but you can buy mineral water for the utmost safe drinking water.
Another option, you fill boiled drinking water at the tea houses. However, it also costs Rs. 300-500 per litre.
Is two days of acclimatization enough for this trek?
Two acclimatizations are adequate for Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek with Cho La and Renjo La Pass.
For acclimatization, you'll stop for a day at Namche Bazaar and another in Dingboche. At Namche, you'll hike to Hotel Everest View at 3,880 meters for acclimatization. Similarly, at Dingboche, you'll hike up to Nangkartshang Peak. Both acclimatization hikes provide your body with adequate adaptation well to the altitude.
Hence, with two acclimatizations, you'll adapt well to the altitude and accomplish the trek with ease.
Practical Matters
Is internet available at the tea houses in the Everest region?
Yes. Every tea house provides high-speed wifi cards that cost Rs. 700 (24 hours) and Rs. 1400 (48 hours). However, you'll get free wifi at places like Namche and Lukla.
The wifi cards are valid for 24 hours and 48 hours. Hence, you can use the card at multiple stops if they use the same internet provider. In the Everest region, you'll find Everest Airlink mostly.
Do I have to bring a sleeping bag and a down jacket for the trek?
It's best to bring a sleeping bag and a warm-down jacket for the trek. However, if you don't have one, we'll provide you with a sleeping bag and a down jacket on rent for the trek at USD 40 each. We'll provide a neat and clean sleeping bag and a down jacket.
Do I need to pay additional money if I trek solo instead of joining the group?
No. You don't need to pay additional money for solo trekking instead of joining the group. If you prefer trekking alone with a trek guide, you're welcome.
However, the Everest Base Camp Trek Cost with Gokyo Lakes via Cho La Pass is slightly expensive for individual trekkers. It's because you've to pay for the guide, trek porter, and other stuff on the trek, which the group gets shared.
Can I extend the trek itinerary?
Extending the trek's itinerary is possible if you're on a solo trek with us. However, extending the trek itinerary would be difficult if you're trekking in a group.
For example, you can extend the itinerary to stop at Gokyo Lakes for a day or take additional acclimatization at Namche and Dingboche. Since you'll have a trek guide and a porter, it'll be easier for them to accommodate you during the extended period.
However, while trekking in a group, with limited trek guides and porters, it won't be possible to allocate a trek guide and porter for you.
Thus, we suggest you inform us before the trek if you want more trek days than mentioned in the itinerary.
Which places are best to visit after completing Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lakes?
After completing the 15-day trek, you'll feel tired. Thus, it's better to tour peaceful places like Pokhara and Chitwan for a few days.
Pokhara, the tourism capital of Nepal, is a popular holiday destination. A hot spot among Annapurna region trekkers, it can be best for Everest trekkers to relax and chill for a few days. The elegant Annapurna mountains, lakes, caves, and hilltops are the best. You can stay at luxurious hotels in the countryside setting in Sarangkot.
Here's our blog on the 10 best places to visit in Pokhara.
The Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour is best after completing the trek. Chitwan is a humid flatland where abundant luxury meets nature's utmost elegance. Jeep safari, tiger encounters, jungle walks, and elephant breeding center visits are popular activities.
Check out our most affordable Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour Package.
Travelers Review
The reviews below are from our clients who did wholesome trekking and tours in Nepal with us. All the reviews here reflect how we run the trekking, treat our clients, and organize the trek and tours. Below listed reviews are from TripAdvisor, which is the most accurate and trusted review platform among travelers.
Have a read at what our clients say about us!!