Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes – 17 Days

The Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes is a spectacular 17-day trekking adventure that combines the classic route to Everest Base Camp with a scenic detour through the beautiful Gokyo Valley. This trek offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and adventure as you traverse diverse landscapes ranging from lush forests and traditional Sherpa villages to high-altitude glacial lakes and dramatic mountain passes.

You start your journey with a thrilling mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, one of the most iconic and scenic airports in the world. From Lukla, the trek gradually ascends through valleys and Sherpa settlements, allowing ample time for acclimatization. Unlike the standard EBC trek, this route takes you to the stunning Gokyo Lakes and the summit of Gokyo Ri, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu—four of the world’s highest peaks.

Crossing the challenging Cho La Pass adds an adventurous element before rejoining the classic trail to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. Throughout the trek, you’ll experience Sherpa culture, visit Buddhist monasteries, and witness breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. This trek is ideal for those seeking a more rewarding and less crowded route to Everest Base Camp.

Trip Accommodation

Accommodation during this trek is a mix of teahouses (also called lodges) and hotels. In Kathmandu, you’ll stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel with modern amenities to relax before and after the trek.

On the trekking route, accommodation is primarily in teahouses — simple lodges run by local families or communities. These teahouses provide basic facilities such as a shared or private room with beds, blankets, and communal bathrooms. Some teahouses offer hot showers and Wi-Fi, but availability depends on the location.

Rooms generally have twin-sharing beds and are cozy, though conditions become more rustic at higher altitudes. Staying in teahouses is a great way to immerse yourself in local life and culture. The hosts often serve traditional Sherpa meals and provide a warm, hospitable environment despite the remote setting.

Trek Package – Food

Food on the Everest Base Camp trek is plentiful and varied. Most teahouses serve three meals a day — breakfast, lunch, and dinner — often included in your trek package.

Typical meals include hearty options such as:

• Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice): The staple Nepali meal, filling and nutritious.
• Noodles and soups: Great for warming up after a cold day.
• Momo: Tibetan-style steamed or fried dumplings filled with vegetables, chicken, or buffalo meat.
• Rice and curry dishes.
• Pancakes, porridge, and eggs for breakfast.

You’ll also have access to tea, coffee, and the famous butter tea in some areas. Since the food is cooked fresh and locally sourced, it’s generally wholesome and nutritious. However, higher up in the trek, food prices rise due to transportation challenges, so be prepared for slightly higher costs. Carrying energy bars or snacks is advisable to keep your energy up on longer trekking days.

Best Time To Trek Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes

The best times to undertake the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes are during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons.

• Spring (March to May): This is a fantastic time to trek because of blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers, moderate temperatures, and clear skies. Snow begins to melt, making the trails accessible but still snowy at higher altitudes.
• Autumn (late September to November): Considered the best season by many trekkers due to stable weather, crisp air, and clear views of the mountains. Temperatures are cooler but pleasant during the day.

The monsoon season (June to early September) brings heavy rains and slippery trails, while winter (December to February) has cold temperatures and snow, especially at higher elevations, which can make trekking more difficult.

Fitness Level and Health

The Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes trek is moderately to highly challenging due to the altitude and duration. A good level of physical fitness is essential.

You should be comfortable with:

• Walking for 5 to 8 hours daily on uneven terrain.
• Coping with changes in altitude (reaching over 5,500 meters).
• Carrying a small daypack.
• To prepare:
• Engage in regular cardiovascular exercises such as running, cycling, or swimming.
• Include hill walking or stair climbing in your training.
• Strengthen your legs and core muscles through squats, lunges, and balance exercises.

Health-wise, acclimatization days are built into the itinerary to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. It’s vital to stay hydrated, eat well, and avoid overexertion. Inform your guide immediately if you experience symptoms like headache, nausea, dizziness, or extreme fatigue.

A Typical Day on the Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes Trek

A typical trekking day usually starts early, around 6:00 to 7:00 AM:

• Breakfast is served by 7:00 AM.
• You begin trekking soon after, usually trekking for 4 to 7 hours depending on the day.
• Breaks are taken along the way for rest, tea, and meals.
• You arrive at the next teahouse by mid-afternoon.
• After settling in, you can rest, explore the nearby village, or take short acclimatization hikes.
• Dinner is usually served early, around 6:00 to 7:00 PM.
• You’ll retire early to rest for the next day’s trek.

The pace is moderate, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and help your body adjust to the altitude. Guides will keep a steady pace and ensure everyone’s health and safety.

How to Communicate During Trekking in Nepal?

Communication in the Everest region can be limited due to its remoteness, but there are options:

• Mobile phone coverage: Available in some villages and teahouses but often unreliable or expensive.
• Internet (Wi-Fi): Many teahouses offer Wi-Fi for a small fee, usually slow but enough for messaging or emails.
• Satellite phones: Guides and agencies often carry these for emergencies.
• Local SIM cards: If you purchase a Nepalese SIM card in Kathmandu, you can get better local coverage but still limited at high altitude.
• Walkie-talkies or radios: Sometimes used by trekking groups for internal communication.

It’s advisable to inform family or friends of your itinerary and check in during rest days when communication is more accessible.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory and highly recommended for the Everest Base Camp trek. Make sure your insurance covers:

• High-altitude trekking (up to 6,000 meters).
• Emergency evacuation and helicopter rescue.
• Medical treatment for altitude sickness or injuries.
• Trip cancellations or delays.

Many trekking agencies require proof of insurance before the trek starts. Always read the policy carefully to understand coverage limits and conditions.

Nepal Tourist Visa Information

Most international travelers require a tourist visa to enter Nepal.

• Visa on arrival: Available at Tribhuvan International Airport and some land border points.
• Visa duration and fees: Tourist visas are issued for 15, 30, or 90 days.
• For example, a 30-day visa currently costs approximately USD 50.
• You need a valid passport with at least six months validity.
• Passport-sized photos are required.
• Visa extensions can be done in Kathmandu or Pokhara if you decide to stay longer.

It’s easy to obtain the visa on arrival, but you can also apply beforehand at Nepalese embassies or consulates.

Currency Exchange: USD to NPR

The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR).

• Exchange rates fluctuate but generally, 1 USD = around 130-135 NPR (check current rates before travel).
• It’s advisable to carry some USD in cash for easy exchange.
• Currency exchange services are available at Kathmandu airport, banks, and authorized exchange counters.
• Many trekking areas accept cash only, so carry sufficient NPR.
• Credit cards are not widely accepted in remote areas.
• ATMs are available in Kathmandu and Namche Bazaar but scarce beyond.

Luggage Info

For the trek, packing smart is crucial:

• You will carry a small daypack with essentials like water, snacks, extra clothing, camera, and personal items.
• Your main luggage will be carried by porters (one porter for every two trekkers is common).
• The main luggage should be packed in a duffel bag or soft-sided bag—hard suitcases are not suitable for trekking.
• Weight limits for porter-carried luggage are usually around 10 kg per person.
• Carry valuables, medicines, and important documents in your daypack.
• Make sure your bags are durable, water-resistant, and have secure closures.

Safety

Safety on the Everest Base Camp trek is a top priority:

• Trekking with an experienced guide ensures you are supported with route knowledge and emergency procedures.
• Proper acclimatization days reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
• Stay hydrated and eat properly.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking during the trek.
• Monitor your health daily; inform guides immediately if you feel unwell.
• Use trekking poles and sturdy footwear to prevent slips and injuries.
• Weather can change rapidly; carry proper clothing layers and rain gear.
• Emergency evacuation plans and medical kits are part of the trek package.
• Respect local customs and environment to ensure a safe and responsible journey.