Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Trek | 17 Days and Cost

Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Trek | 17 Days and Cost

Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek: Reach Everest Base Camp, cross Cho La Pass, and discover the turquoise lakes of Gokyo.

Duration17 Days
Max Altitude5,545 m
DifficultyChallenging
From $1599
Trek Overview

Everest Base Camp And Gokyo Lake Trek 17 Days

The Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Trek is a 17-day adventure in Nepal, including 14 days of trekking through the Khumbu region. The route takes you to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m), Kala Patthar (5,545 m), Cho La Pass (5,420 m), and Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), with time to explore the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and surrounding Himalayan scenery.

If you have extra time beyond the standard Everest Base Camp trek, adding Gokyo Lake gives you a more varied journey. You still reach Everest Base Camp, but instead of following the same trail back, you cross into a different valley, see the Ngozumpa Glacier, and experience a quieter side of the Khumbu.

The trek starts with a mountain flight to Lukla and follows the main trail through Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep. After Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, you return toward Dzongla before crossing Cho La Pass. The route then continues through Gokyo, Machhermo, Dole, and Namche Bazaar before reaching Lukla.

The Gokyo section offers a different mountain experience from the Everest Base Camp trail. The route passes along the Ngozumpa Glacier and the Gokyo Lakes, while Gokyo Ri provides a wide Himalayan viewpoint. On a clear morning, you can see Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu from the summit.

The trek takes place inside Sagarmatha National Park. You need a Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and a Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit. We arrange both permits before the trek. No climbing permit is required because this is a trekking route.

The itinerary includes acclimatisation days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche before the higher sections of the route. Most trekking days involve 5–7 hours of walking, while the climbs to Kala Patthar and Gokyo Ri and the Cho La crossing can require longer days.

The result is a complete Khumbu journey that combines the classic Everest Base Camp trail with the glaciers, lakes, valleys, and mountain views of the Gokyo region.

Ready to go?

Download Day-by-Day Itinerary

Lukla Flight Information

You can reach the Everest region by air from Kathmandu or Ramechhap, depending on the season. During peak trekking months, flights usually operate from Ramechhap, which requires a drive from Kathmandu before your flight. The flight to Lukla takes around 15–20 minutes from Ramechhap and about 30–35 minutes from Kathmandu. Mountain weather can cause delays or cancellations, so flight times may change. Our [Lukla Flight Guide] covers airport arrangements, baggage limits, flight schedules, and what to expect on your travel day.

Road Option

If you prefer to travel by road, a 2-day drive from Kathmandu takes you to Surke, a village below Lukla. From Surke, you can begin trekking toward Phakding and connect with the main Everest trail. The road journey takes longer than flying but avoids the Lukla flight and gives you a different way to enter the Everest region.

At a Glance

Quick Trip Facts

Total Distance

150 km

Walking Days

17 Days

Accommodation

Hotel & Teahouses

Meals

B+L+D During Trek

Transportation

Car/Van & Lukla Flight

Group Size

2–12 People

Guide

Government Licensed Guide

Porter

1 Porter for 2 Guests

Best Season

March–May & Sep–Nov

Fitness Level

Good Physical Fitness Required

Permit

Required Permits Included

Trip Style

Guided Lodge Trek

Starts

Kathmandu

Ends

Kathmandu

Why This Trek
4,790 m
Gokyo Lake
Why This Trek

Why Choose Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek

If you want more than the classic Base Camp route, the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Trek combines Everest Base Camp, Cho La Pass, and Gokyo Valley in one journey. The route takes you through the Gokyo Lakes, Ngozumpa Glacier, and Gokyo Ri, giving you a wider view of the Khumbu.

Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes in One Trek

Many trekkers choose either Everest Base Camp or Gokyo Lakes. This trek combines both. You reach Base Camp first, cross Cho La Pass, and continue into the Gokyo Valley.

Cho La pass Makes It More Demanding

Cho La Pass stands at 5,420 m and is one of the harder sections of the trek. The trail can be steep and rocky, with snow and ice on the pass depending on the season. Good preparation and a steady pace are important here.

Gokyo Has Its Own Character

The Gokyo Valley is different from the Base Camp trail. Its turquoise lakes, Ngozumpa Glacier, and surrounding peaks give you a different view of the Khumbu. From Gokyo and Gokyo Ri, you can see Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and other peaks.

More of the Khumbu

You spend more time walking through the Khumbu on this trek. You pass Sherpa villages, stay in local teahouses, cross Cho La, and experience the quieter Gokyo side after reaching Everest Base Camp.

WHY TREK WITH US

Why Choose Mountain World Treks?

When you choose a company for the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Trek, you want guides who know the route well. You are trusting them with your safety, your time, and your days at high altitude. This trek takes you through long walking days, Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes, and Cho La Pass. I started my trekking career as a porter in 1996 and became a guide before founding Mountain World Treks in 2010. I still guide trekkers today, and I know how much difference the right guide can make to your trek in the Himalayas.

1996

Started as a Trekking Porter

2000

Became a Licensed Guide

2010

Founded Mountain World Treks

Today

Still Actively Guiding Treks in Nepal

30+

Years from Porter to Founder

Ranked #46 in TripAdvisor

Our TripAdvisor ranking comes from trekkers who travelled with us. Their reviews reflect what guests actually experienced with our guides, from the first day on the trail to the end of their trek

Trained by Saligram

Saligram cannot lead every trek, so he trains the guides who work with Mountain World Treks. Sudip, Niraj, Ishwor, Bipin, Dinesh, Suresh, Sital, Tek, and Ramesh have all learned from him.

Talk to Us First

Not sure about your fitness, pace, or altitude? Ask us before booking. We would rather explain the trek honestly, including the difficult parts, than promise an easy trip just to secure your booking.

Small Groups, More Care

We normally keep groups between 1 and 12 trekkers. Smaller groups help guides look after everyone's pace, notice problems early, and change the plan when needed.

We Watch Your Progress

Every guide carries a pulse oximeter and first-aid kit. From Namche onward, we watch how everyone is coping with altitude and adjust the pace, rest stops, or plan when necessary.

We Know the Porter’s Load

Saligram started as a porter, carrying other people's loads. That experience still shapes how we work today. Our porters receive fair pay, reasonable loads, and medical support throughout the trek.

Is This Trek For You

Is Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Trek Right for You?

Choose the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Trek if you want to combine the classic route to Everest Base Camp with the Gokyo Valley, where you can walk beside its glacial lakes and climb Gokyo Ri for views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu.

After guiding this route, I recommend it to trekkers who want more than the direct EBC trail. You should be ready for several nights above 4,000 m, steep climbs and descents, cold mornings, and simple teahouse accommodation in the higher villages.

Highlights

Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Trek Highlights

Reach Everest Base Camp at 5,364 m

Stand at the foot of the world's highest mountain after trekking through the Khumbu.

Cross Cho La Pass at 5,420 m

Take on one of the highest and most demanding sections of the trek.

Visit the Gokyo Lakes

See the turquoise lakes surrounded by the high peaks of the Gokyo Valley

Climb Kala Patthar and Gokyo Ri

Get wide views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, and the surrounding mountains.

Explore Sherpa Villages and Monasteries

Walk through Khumbu villages and visit Buddhist monasteries along the trail.

See Ngozumpa Glacier and Himalayan Peaks

Look across the glacier toward Cho Oyu, Makalu, Everest, and Ama Dablam.

Trail Map

Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes

155 km round trip. Everest Region, Nepal
Trail Map
Kathmandu
Day 1
1,350 m
Phakding
Day 2
2,610 m
Namche Bazaar
Day 3-4
3,440 m
Deboche
Day 5
3,800 m
Dingboche
Day 6-7
4,410 m
Lobuche
Day 8
4,910 m
Gorak Shep
Day 9
5,180 m
Dzongla
Day 10
4,830 m
Thangnak
Day 11
4,700 m
Gokyo
Day 12
4,790 m
Dole
Day 13
4,200 m
Namche Bazaar
Day 14
3,440 m
Lukla
Day 15
2,840 m
Kathmandu
Day 16
1,350 m
Trip Ends
Day 17
1,350 m
Day-by-Day

Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lakes Trek Itinerary

This is the exact 17-day itinerary I follow on every Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lakes trek I run. Starting in Kathmandu, we fly to Lukla and trek through Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, and Lobuche to reach Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, then cross Cho La Pass to visit Gokyo Lakes before returning to Namche Bazaar, Lukla, and Kathmandu. Below, you’ll find the daily itinerary, overnight elevations, walking times, and practical advice based on my years leading treks in the Khumbu region.

Trek Cost

How Much Does the Everest Base Camp & Gokyo Lakes Trek Cost?

The 17-day Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek costs USD 1,599 per person. The price includes Kathmandu hotel stays before and after the trek, Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu flights, Sagarmatha National Park and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality permits, teahouse accommodation, three meals a day during the trek, a licensed guide and porter, airport transfers, taxes, and service charges.

Join a Group
$1599 / per person

Trek with like-minded adventurers. Departures every spring and autumn season.


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    • Custom Itinerary
    • Luxury lodge upgrades
    • Helicopter returns After Gokyo Lake
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    How to Book

    How We Arrange Your Trek

    From your first inquiry to the start of your Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Trek, we handle the key arrangements step by step.

    01
    Send an Inquiry

    Tell us your preferred dates, group size, and trekking plans.

    02
    Receive Your Itinerary & Quote

    We’ll send your route, itinerary, price, and answers to your questions.

    03
    Confirm Your Booking

    Pay the required deposit to confirm your trek and receive your booking details.

    04
    Get Ready for Your Adventure

    We’ll send packing advice and essential information before you arrive.

    Package Details

    Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek Cost Includes & Excludes

    The Cost Includes

    • Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu
    • 2 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast, before and after the trek
    • Domestic flights (Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu)
    • Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
    • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit
    • Government-licensed English-speaking trekking guide
    • Porter service (1 porter shared between 2 trekkers, maximum combined luggage weight of 25 kg)
    • 14 nights teahouse accommodation during the trek
    • Three meals a day during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a cup of tea or coffee)
    • Fresh seasonal fruit after dinner during the trek
    • Comprehensive first-aid kit and pulse oximeter carried by your guide
    • Sleeping bag and duffel bag (available on request)
    • Free luggage storage at our Kathmandu office during the trek
    • Company T-shirt, trek completion certificate, and medal
    • All government taxes and agency service charges

    The Cost Excludes

    • International flights to and from Nepal
    • Nepal tourist visa fee
    • Travel insurance covering trekking up to 6,000 m, including emergency helicopter evacuation
    • Personal trekking gear and equipment
    • Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, bottled or boiled water, laundry, souvenirs, etc.)
    • Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and device charging at teahouses
    • Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
    • Tips for your guide and porter (optional but always appreciated)
    • Extra accommodation, meals, or transportation in Kathmandu due to flight delays, early arrival, or late departure
    • Any costs arising from itinerary changes caused by weather, natural disasters, government restrictions, flight cancellations, or personal

    Important: Travel insurance is not included in the package. Before your trek, you must purchase a policy that covers high-altitude trekking up to at least 6,000 m and emergency helicopter evacuation.

    Alternative Itinerary
    Where To Sleep

    Accommodation During the EBC and Gokyo Lakes Trek

    Teahouses provide basic rooms and shared bathrooms throughout the Khumbu. Facilities become simpler at higher elevations, while Kathmandu accommodation is in a private hotel room. Our Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Trek Accommodation Guide covers what to expect along the route.

    • Twin-sharing rooms, limited triple rooms
    • Heated dining areas
    • WiFi and charging
    • Hot showers at selected lodges

    Food & Drinks During the Everest Base Camp & Gokyo Lake Trek

    Teahouses and lodges serve Nepali and Western meals along the route. Choices become more limited at higher elevations. Our Everest Base Camp & Gokyo Lake Trek Food & Drinks Guide covers meals and drinks along the trek.

    • Dal bhat, momo, noodles, pasta, rice, and potatoes
    • Soups, eggs, pancakes, and bread
    • Vegetarian meals, eggs, and cheese
    • Tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and soft drinks
    Trek Gear & Packing Ideas

    Packing for the Everest Base Camp & Gokyo Lake Trek

    Pack for changing weather, cold mornings, and high-altitude conditions. Bring warm layers, a waterproof jacket, sturdy trekking boots, a sleeping bag, sunglasses, sunscreen, personal medication, trekking poles, and a reusable water bottle. Keep your main gear in a duffel bag and daily essentials in your daypack.

    Our Everest Base Camp & Gokyo Lake Trek Packing List covers clothing, footwear, sleeping gear, toiletries, electronics, and travel documents.

    Trek Gear & Packing Ideas
    Fitness & Difficulty

    How Difficult Is the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek?

    Challenging. This trek is harder than the standard Everest Base Camp route because it adds Cho La Pass and more time at high altitude. You need to be comfortable with long walking days, steep sections, rocky trails, and crossing a high mountain pass.

    What Makes This Trek Challenging?

    • High altitude: Everest Base Camp is at 5,364 m, while Cho La Pass reaches 5,420 m.
    • Long walking days: Several days involve around 5–8 hours of walking, with some sections requiring more effort.
    • Steep and rocky trails: There are regular climbs and descents, with Cho La being the hardest section.
    • Thin air: Walking becomes harder as you gain altitude, especially around Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Cho La, and Gokyo.
    • Cold conditions: Temperatures can fall well below freezing at higher elevations, and snow or ice can make Cho La harder to cross.
    What Fitness Level Is Needed for This Trek?

    You do not need to be an athlete or an experienced climber. You should be able to walk for several hours, handle uphill and downhill sections, and keep walking on consecutive days. Regular walking, hills, stairs, and longer hikes are good preparation before the trek.

    You’re Ready for This Trek If You…

    • Train regularly for several weeks before the trek
    • Include hills and stairs in your regular training
    • Build up to 4–6-hour walks before departure
    • Practice on uneven trails to get used to rocky ground
    • Carry a light daypack during longer training walks

    For a detailed training plan, see our Complete Trek Fitness & Training Guide.

    TREKKING SEASON

    Best Time for the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Trek

    For this trek, weather around Cho La Pass is especially important. The best periods are March to May and late September to November, when the pass is usually easier to cross and the higher trails are in better condition. Autumn is generally the most reliable, while spring brings warmer days and fewer trekkers early in the season. Summer is wetter, and winter can bring snow and ice around Cho La.

    Excellent

    Autumn Season

    Late Sep · Oct · Nov

    Autumn is the safest choice for the full EBC and Gokyo route. October usually has dry trails, clear mornings, and good views across the high valleys. November is colder, but the skies are often clear.

    • Weather: Cool, dry, and stable
    • Crowds: High, especially in October
    • Visibility: Excellent
    Best

    Spring Season

    Mar · Apr · May

    March to May brings warmer weather as the season moves on. March can still be cold around Cho La, while April and May usually have better conditions on the higher trail.

    • Weather: Mild days, cold nights at altitude
    • Crowds: Moderate to high
    • Visibility: Good to very good
    Good

    Winter Season

    Dec · Jan · Feb

    Winter brings the coldest conditions of the year. Snow and ice can cover parts of Cho La, making the crossing harder. Nights in Gokyo and other high villages can be extremely cold.

    • Weather: Very cold, with possible snow
    • Crowds: Low - fewer trekkers on the trail
    • Visibility: Often clear on good-weather
    Possible

    Monsoon Season

    Jun · Jul · Aug

    June to August is the monsoon period. The Everest region receives less rain than many parts of Nepal, but clouds can block the mountain views and flights to Lukla are more likely to be delayed.

    • Weather: Rain, cloud, and Humid
    • Crowds: Low - fewer trekkers on the trail
    • Visibility: Variable
    Trek Comparison

    Everest Base Camp Trek vs Everest Base Camp & Gokyo Lake Trek

    Classic Everest Base Camp or the longer route through Cho La and Gokyo? Compare both and see which trek fits you better.

    Feature Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Trek | 17 Days and Cost Everest Base Camp Trek | 14 Days Itinerary, Cost & Best Time
    Duration 17 Days Days 14 Days Days
    Highest Point Kala Patthar – 5,545 m / Cho La Pass – 5,420 m / Gokyo Ri 5,357 m Kala Patthar – 5,545 m
    Difficulty More Challenging Challenging
    Best For A longer trek for those wanting Base Camp, Cho La Pass, and Gokyo Lakes First-time Everest trekkers & classic EBC experience
    Mountain Highlights Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Cho Oyu Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam
    Landscape High valleys, glaciers, lakes, rocky trails & Cho La Pass High valleys, glaciers, rocky trails & mountain villages
    Culture Sherpa villages & Tibetan Buddhist culture Sherpa villages & Tibetan Buddhist culture
    Crowds Less crowded on the Gokyo section Higher on the main EBC trail
    Trek Experience More varied route with Cho La Pass and Gokyo Lakes Classic route focused on Everest Base Camp
    Trek Resources

    What You Need to Know Before the Everest Base Camp & Gokyo Lake Trek

    The trek reaches 5,545 m at Kala Patthar, 5,420 m at Cho La Pass, and 5,357 m at Gokyo Ri. These guides cover the practical details to check before your trek, including altitude, insurance, permits, flights, weather, Gokyo Lakes, Cho La Pass, and solo trekking.

    What is altitude sickness on the Everest Base Camp & Gokyo Lake Trek?

    Altitude sickness can occur as you climb higher, especially above 3,000 meters. Headache, nausea, dizziness, tiredness, and poor sleep are common early signs. Tell your guide if you feel unwell. If symptoms worsen, stop ascending and descend.

    See the Trek Before You Go

    Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek Video Guide

    ★★★★★
    verified reviews

    Adventure of a lifetime

    Saligram and team took good care of me from the moment I landed at Kathmandu Airport until my departure back to Malaysia. I was a female solo trekker  doing EBC and Gokyo lake Trek and never once had I felt scared on trek as my guide Tek and porter Naren watch over me vigilantly and took care of all my needs on trek. When flights got delayed, his crew Niraj helped me get a heli to Lukla and after the trekking, escorted me back to Kathmandu from Ramechap, relieving me from any trouble of getting a van and other arrangements. It made me enjoy the adventure to the fullest, knowing that I am safe at all times. Wonderful experience, thanks Saligram and your awesome crew!

    Fatin

    Malaysia

    No.1 trekking company

    To anyone considering trekking to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo  Mountain World Treks  is the company I recommend.
    For professionalism, safety, from drop off to pick up and everything else in between.
    If you are considering trekking the Himalayan mountains this is the company you want by your side! In our eyes they’re No.1
    Niraj was a fabulous guide and ensured all of our needs were met from the beginning until the end of the day.

    Nobby Rinni

    Bendigo, Australia

    Everest base camp and Gokyo lake with Mountain World Treks

    What a trip, first time in Nepal and I did Everest base camp and Gokyo lake trek with group of friend from Malaysia organized by Mountain World Treks, it was great experience, thanks to Saligram and his team for making this happen. It was life changing experience, highly recommend Mountain World Treks and his team. See you again for another adventure!

    Ray

    Malaysia

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    Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lake Trek | 17 Days and Cost

    From $1599 per person

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