Everest Base Camp & Gokyo Lakes Trek

You will meet your Bucket List Leaders at the airport and fly out as a group for Bucket Lister + Trips. If you have booked a Bucket Lister Trip we will see you in Nepal soon!

We arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to our hotel; you have the afternoon to rest or explore your new surroundings.

There will be an early evening welcome meeting.

In the morning, after breakfast, there will be a thorough pre-trek briefing by your trek leader to sort out any last-minute queries. We leave the hotel at 1 pm and take the winding road to Ramechhap.

Please note:

Ongoing developmental works and necessary maintenance at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan Airport mean flights to Lukla depart from Ramechhap Airport. This step was taken by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) during the 2019 post-monsoon season and has been extended for an indefinite period. Although there are sometimes flights from Kathmandu these cannot be guaranteed, even with advanced booking.

We drive to Ramechhap during daylight hours and spend the night there. This ensures we are refreshed and can be on the first flights to Lukla in the morning, ready to start our trek.

We board an early morning flight to Lukla; this often ranks as one of the highlights of this trek, thanks to the stunning views it provides of the Himalayas. Lots of people also have landing at Tenzing-Hillary Airport on their bucket list – you’ll be ticking that off today!

The first stage of your trek offers some of the trek’s most enchanting rural scenery, with prayer rocks, mani walls, and quaint Sherpa settlements. The trail today descends towards Phakding and is shorter than the following days; this allows time to explore the village of Phakding and enjoy lunch. We usually settle in for the night in Phakding, however depending on the group’s energy levels and the time available, there may be the option to continue to Monjo, our alternate stop for the night.

Trekking Distance: 8.2km (approx. 3 hours of trekking)

Following a hearty breakfast, we’ll set off on a trail along the Dudh Koshi, or ‘Milk River’.

From Phakding, we’ll be following a path that navigates across three hanging bridges and ascends through charming hamlets.

At Monjo we’ll enter the Sagarmatha National Park; your group leaders and guides will manage the permits for you here while you have a hot drink or browse the shops.

The trail continues upstream along the river banks to the confluence of the Bhote Koshi and Dudh Koshi. After crossing the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge, the trail starts ascending through pine tree forests; this last section is challenging, but the rewards are worth it. We’ll reach the distinctive horse-shoe-shaped bowl village of Namche Bazaar where we will stop overnight.

Trekking Distance: 10.9km (approx. 7 hours of trekking)

Day 3 of the trek is set aside for acclimatisation. We’ll take a morning walk up to the Everest View Hotel – the highest-altitude hotel in the world! This walk not only assists in adjusting your body to the altitude but also treats you to stunning views of the Everest range.

We’ll descend back to Namche Bazaar, just in time for a hearty lunch. The post-lunch schedule offers you the rest of the afternoon at your leisure.

Namche Bazaar offers plenty to explore. You can meander through its lively streets, browsing through a range of colourful shops that offer a variety of Nepalese goods, from traditional artefacts to trekking gear. Delight your taste buds with a visit to the local bakeries or enjoy a hot coffee while soaking up panoramic views.

And, if you’re up for it, you can’t miss grabbing a pint and a game of pool at the famous Irish Bar. Besides serving a good brew, this bar holds the unique distinction of being the highest Irish bar globally.

Trekking Distance: 5.4km (approx. 3 hours of trekking)

Following a quick climb at the start of the trek, the path flattens as we head towards the picturesque village of Kyamjuma. From there, we descend into the heart of the valley, reaching a charming spot beside the Dudh Koshi at 3250m, just in time for lunch.

This section of the trek offers some of the most awe-inspiring views you’ll encounter on this journey – marvel at the stunning vistas of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

Following lunch, it’s time for an ambitious climb towards Tengboche. Navigating the zig-zag path might take around 2-3 hours, but once we’ve reached Tengboche, it’s time for a visit to the renowned Tengboche Monastery – the largest monastery in the Khumbu region.

We’ll stay in Tengboche overnight.

Trekking Distance: 9.6km (approx. 5 hours of trekking)

We bid farewell to Tengboche after a hearty breakfast and navigate our way down towards the Dudh Koshi River.

This section of the trek takes us through scenic rhododendron and fir forests, soaked in morning mountain mist. As we cross the bridge over the river, we’ll need to brace ourselves for a climb to the village of Pangboche.

Post lunch in Pangboche, we follow the pathway uphill to Dingboche, our destination for the day. Be sure to take in the views of Ama Dablam (‘The Matterhorn of the Himalayas’), which stands out against the rustic charm of the stone-walled fields and pastures.

At an altitude of 4410 metres, the village of Dingboche has a vibrant aura and stunning mountain views. It also boasts one of our favourite cafés – make sure you check out Café 4410!

Trekking Distance: 11km (approx. 6 hours of trekking)

Dingboche, also known as the ‘Summer Valley’, offers ample opportunities for your body to adjust to the altitude, vital for a successful and enjoyable trek.

Kick off your day with a nutritious breakfast, followed by a picturesque walk towards Chukung. This gentle hike serves both as an exercise to acclimatise, and an opportunity to enjoy beautiful views of the Himalayan peaks. You’ll experience panoramic views of the imposing south face of Lhotse, sweeping landscapes of Imja Tse (Island Peak), and the cascading glaciers of Ama Dablam. The overall vista of mountain peaks, glaciers, and vast rocky expanses make this walk worth every step.

Back in Dingboche, the afternoon offers time for relaxation or exploration of the local area.

Trekking Distance: 4.5km (approx. 5 hours of trekking)

On leaving Dingboche, the trail climbs steeply, cutting through the initial pang of high-altitude trekking with breathtaking views of the Himalayas. You’ll progress along the lateral moraine of Khumbu Glacier, with striking views of Tawachee and Cholatse peaks keeping you company.

Midway through the day, the aim is to reach Thukla at 4620m. Here, take a moment to savour a leisurely lunch and recharge yourself for the steep trek that awaits us to Thukla Pass. Once at the pass, take some time to pay respect at the Everest Memorial, a solemn tribute to the climbers & Sherpas who have lost their lives on climbing expeditions.

Post lunch, continue the ascent, along a somewhat rough trail to the edge of the Khumbu Glacier. The Everest Base Camp trail now moves along the rocky terrain towards Lobuche, our final stop for the day.

Camouflaged among stunning peaks, Lobuche is a comforting destination after a day of intense trekking.

Trekking Distance: 7.9km (approx. 5 hours of trekking)

Today’s the day you have been waiting for – the journey from Lobuche to Gorak Shep, and finally to Everest Base Camp.

Setting off from Lobuche, the trail continues to take you across the edge of the Khumbu Glacier, gradually ascending to the small settlement of Gorak Shep.

On reaching Gorak Shep, take a brief pause to catch your breath and grab something to eat. From here, replenished and revived, embark on the final push to Everest Base Camp.

The path here is comprised of rocky terrain and moraine, challenging yet thrilling. Tread carefully over the uneven boulders and rocks, and let the views of Pumori and other peaks help take your mind off the demanding trail.

When you finally set foot in Everest Base Camp, take a moment to admire the awe-inspiring sight of the Khumbu Icefall rolling off the South Col. Fully soak in this moment, capture pictures, and celebrate this accomplishment with your trek mates.

After absorbing the captivating views and achievements, head back to Gorak Shep. This final stretch of the day is a descent, easing the efforts of the day. Spend the night at a lodge in Gorak Shep.

Trekking Distance: 11.7km (approx. 7 hours of trekking)

Today offers an optional early morning ascent of Kala Patthar, the most popular vantage point in the region for capturing the magnificent form of Mount Everest in all its glory. It’s a challenging start to the day but also incredibly rewarding.

Wake up before dawn and start the climb to Kala Patthar under the star-studded sky. As you ascend, the golden rays of the rising sun begin to illuminate the snow-capped peaks. Standing atop Kala Patthar, soak up the inspiring view of Mount Everest, which appears so close it feels like you could touch it.

Once you’ve taken in this moment with photographs, return to Gorak Shep. Enjoy a well-deserved breakfast at the lodge and pack your things into your duffle bag.

Regrouped and refreshed, prepare to leave Gorak Shep and descend to Lobuche, reversing our route from day 11. We’ll then strike off on a different path and head to Dzongla for the night.

You’ll stay in a teahouse with a warm meal and a comfortable bed.

Trekking Distance: 11km (approx. 8 hours of trekking) – this does not include Kala Patthar

Today we move from Dzongla to Dragnag, over the Cho La Pass; this links the glacial valleys of Cho Oyu and Everest.

The climb over the pass is challenging (over rocks, snow and ice), but non-technical, and offers superb views.

Trekking Distance: 10km (approx. 8 hours of trekking)

This is an easy but slow day due to the altitude. We arrive at Gokyo, a Sherpa settlement beside the main Gokyo Lake (Gokyo Cho) after trekking along the Ngozumpa glacier. Gokyo is typical of the high seasonal settlements used by Sherpas for farming.

This afternoon you can relax, or you can choose to trek up Gokyo Ri (5360m) for panoramic mountain views to rival Kala Patthar. The breathtaking view includes four peaks: Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu and Makalu, plus the turquoise Gokyo Lakes and the Ngozumba glacier.

Trekking Distance: 5km (approx. 4 hours of trekking) – not including Gokyo Ri

Wake up to stunning views of Gokyo Cho from our accommodation. After breakfast, we will descend to Dole, where we will spend the night. Along the way enjoy the excellent views of Thamserku, Cho Oyu, and Kangtega.

Trekking Distance: 13km (approx. 5 hours of trekking)

From Dole we head back to Namche Bazaar for well-earned rest and refuelling at the delightful cafés and shops. The best slice of cake you will ever taste!

Trekking Distance: 12km (approx. 6 hours of trekking)

Leaving the vibrant Namche Bazaar behind, we descend towards the Dudh Koshi, navigating along the winding, rocky trail. Cross the suspension bridges, engraving the last glimpses of the Himalayan peaks in your memory.

Upon reaching Monjo, you’ll exit the Sagarmatha National Park, and continue your walk back to Phakding.

After a brief rest in Phakding, it’s a steady uphill trek back to Lukla, completing the full circle of your journey.

Trekking Distance: 11.7km (approx. 6 hours of trekking)

After an early breakfast at the lodge, we fly to Ramechhap and transfer to Kathmandu to arrive at our hotel. We have the afternoon free to rest or explore more of the city.

Today is a free day to explore Kathmandu at your leisure. Explore the bustling streets of Thamel, head to a tea house, eat freshly-cooked momos or visit one of many Buddhist temples around the city at your leisure.

Alternatively, you may choose to embark on an optional city tour, immersing yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of this ancient city. This guided exploration includes visits to the sacred Swayambhunath, or Monkey, Temple, the historic hub of Durbar Square, the residence of the living goddess (Kumari) and the Gokarneshwar Mahadev Temple.

In the evening, there will be a farewell group meal at a local venue where you can reminisce about your shared adventure.

This marks the end of our Nepali adventure...alternatively, you could continue your adventure with a 3-day add-on to Chitwan National Park!