Join our mailing list to receive news, updates, offers and e-brochures.
TE-EGT
Strenuous
20 days / 19 nights
17 days / 16 nights
5,545 meters/ 18,192 feet, Kala Patthar, Day 10
Hotel, Teahouses
from US$ 2300 per person
The Everest Base Camp trek is a timeless classic, loved by all. Little further away, over the formidable high crossing of Cho La pass, lies six gorgeous Himalayan lakes of Gokyo sparking with pristine glacial waters. By combining the three features for a one super holiday, we have one of the most adventurous treks in Khumbu/Everest.
For those looking for a variation in their Everest Base Camp program, a side trip over the challenging Cho La pass and onto the world’s highest freshwater lake system of Gokyo presents a challenging option. The itinerary is physical, requiring strenuous efforts that demands climbs over 5,000 meters/16,500 feet repeatedly - to Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,596ft) and Kala Patthar (5,455m/18,192ft); before descending back down for the crossing of the high pass of Cho La (5,420m/17,782ft); followed by an excursion to Gokyo Ri (5,360m/17,585ft) for a memorable mountain panorama over the stunning clear waters of Gokyo Lakes. One for the highly-motivated trekkers aiming for high altitude challenges, our Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek offers a quintessential Khumbu adventure, one that graduates above the standard EBC program.
What can we expect – trip overview and highlights.
You know an adventure is epic when you start it by boarding a tiny plane flying to a small airstrip perched on the side of a towering mountain. Landing at the airfield in Lukla (2,845m/9,334ft), fondly nicknamed ‘the gateway to Everest’, excitement fill the air for the anticipation of a famed traverse mapped by legendary individuals before us. The Dudh Koshi valley is colourful – dotted with numerous hamlets and farms, their cosy lodges and teahouses, and many swinging suspensions bridges over the Dudh Koshi Khola (river)- packs the early pages of our adventure. Higher up, the Khumbu Valley is unique with resident Sherpa villages, their larger-than-life gompas (monastery), alpine forests, and fast-rising Himalaya in all directions as far as the eyes can see. Over the next few days, we progress slowly, taking suitable days to acclimatise, and arrive at the celebrated campsite of Everest Base Camp and the famed Everest-viewpoint at Kala Patthar. Taking a short descend down to the shorelines of Chola Tsho (Chola Lake), we climb back onto the daunting trail across the high mountain pass of Cho La, to arrive at the shimmering turquois lakes of Gokyo and Ngozumpa Glacier sitting underneath prominent snow-capped giants. The hike to Gokyo Ri, a peak overlooking Gokyo, presents breath-taking views of the Great Himalaya, unrivalled by any other viewpoints in the Himalaya. The walk down, to our return flight at Lukla, drops through the quite wilderness of Gokyo Valley, away from the crowded EBC route, to conclude an adventure-filled journey into the heartland of Khumbu.
TE-EGT
20 days / 19 nights
17 days / 16 nights
Strenuous
5,545 meters/ 18,192 feet, Kala Patthar, Day 10
Hotel, Teahouses
Flying in or out of Kathmandu
valley is an amazing experience, very much so, on a clear day. As the plane
approaches from the southern west vector, the Himalaya can be seen far in the
distant north. The approach beautifully navigates between low mountains,
passing over picturesque views of small villages, terrace fields and lush
forests, before the urban city and its intrigued network of roads and buildings
is sprawled below us.
As you make your way through the
formalities of the immigration and custom procedures, our Office Representative
will be awaiting at the airport and assists during our hotel check in.
Hopefully the long flight has not been too exhausting for us to enjoy a pleasant
evening.
Overnight: For-star Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Our exciting day begins with a
30-40 minutes flight to a small hilly village of Lukla. On boarding the tiny
plane, make sure to take the seats on the left of the aisle for they offer
uninterrupted views of the high Himalaya as we fly east. The spectacular flight
is made even more memorable as the plane negotiates over turbulences and fly
above low mountain passes, giving us close sights of the trees and trails over
the Lamjura Pass and Lumding Danda (hill) below. The approach to the
Tenzing-Hillary airport may have you scanning the surroundings and nervously
ask, “where’s the airport?” It arrives with a short sloping runway on a 11.7%
gradient that rises to around 60 metres from one end of the runway to the
other. At an elevation of about 2,845m / 9,334 ft, Lukla sees multiple air
traffic of passengers and cargo flights, daily, as road accessibility is not
yet available.
We enjoy a cup of tea and breath
in our first Himalayan air – fresh, crisp and cool, as our trekking team helps
to collect and prepare our luggage. The descend to Dudh Koshi river lets us
test our footings along the Himalayan pathways, warm up our muscles on the worn
stone steps and our balances on many suspension-bridges. The trail is gentle,
offering us views of tiny settlements scattered across the valley, and is often
busy with everyone using the one trail for their commutes, including yaks and mules.
The views of the mountains are quite here though, with the spear-headed Nupla
Peak (5,885m/19,308ft) dominating the staggering walls of Lumding Danda rising
from across the valley floor. We pass through dotted settlements that invite us
in for warm drinks and minutes of rests, aside elaborately painted mani stones
and concrete mani walls, before arriving at the villages of Nachi Pang and
Thado Koshigaun, where we can take in the view of the summit of Kusum Khangaru
(6,367m/20,890ft) rising over us. A small climb and a gentle contour later, we
arrive at the village of Ghat with her small private chapel of the Rinpoche
(honourable monk) of Phakding Monastery. An elegant mani stone hill marks a
pass from where the trail descends down to Phakding (2,610m/8,569ft) for our
first night in the Himalaya.
For those with enough tanks left
in their legs after the first day hike, can take a short 40-50 minutes climb to
the Gumela Monastery above the village for an evening of exploration. However,
many prefers to visit the monastery on their return leg to Lukla and our
itinerary, too, is designed as such.
Overnight: Lodge/Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and
Dinner
After our first night of good
sleep in the mountains we follow the Dudh Koshi river upstream, passing through
conifer forests and small picturesque villages. Apart from the steep climb to
Namche Bazaar, the trail stays gentle throughout the day. Having said that, it
is the sudden rise in altitude that may play critical role in the afternoon.
So, let’s take it is easy, drink plenty of fluids, and of course, the mountain
scenery gets better as the day progresses. We cross the Dudh Koshi several
times and pass tiny settlements with delightful names such as Zamfute, Toktok,
Bengkar, Chhamuwa and Monjo. Thamserku Peak (6,623m / 21,729ft) stands proudly
on our right as we reach the village of Jorsalle and the entrance to the
Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park. Shortly, hereafter, we arrive at the confluence
of two rivers, Imja Drangka flowing from the east and Nango Drangpo flowing
from the west, that forms the Dudh Koshi river. Just ahead the high hanging
Hillary bridge has been a fascinating subject to many photographers and video
bloggers. The bridge also marks the beginning of the steep climb to Namche. It
is advised to take the climb slowly with plenty of rest stops, though one may
not feel necessary to do so. Many hikers see the climb as their first worthy
challenge in the Himalaya and rushes uphill in good shape, only to find
themselves suffering from the onset of acclimatisation issues in the coming
days. Midway up the climb, a rest stop offers a promise of our first view of
Mt. Everest (8,849m/29,029ft) and Lhotse (8,516m/27,940) to our north, if not
shrouded underneath the afternoon clouds. The gradient of the climb gently
lessens as we arrive at a check post and enter Namche Bazaar, 3,440 m/11,290
ft, the trade centre of Khumbu region.
Namche is the largest village and
the epicentre of trading activities in the region. Thamserkhu Peak in the east,
the huge walls of Kongde Ri ridge to the west, and the sacred mountain Khumbi
Yul Lha (5,761m/18,901ft) in the north dominates the Namche skyline.
Traditional and contemporary Sherpa homes line up in the narrow streets
alongside businesses that houses everything from cafes to handicrafts stores,
to locally grown vegetables from nearby farms to Tibetan wears from across the
border, to renowned brands of mountaineering gears and outdoor equipment. A favourite
night-stop in the region, Namche Bazaar may appear to give an impression of an
international convention with travellers from all around the globe congregating
and sharing their experiences.
Overnight:
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and
Dinner
Today we allow ourself a day to
aid acclimatisation. Acclimatisation and regular hydration play vital roles in
ensuring our body stay healthy in the high altitudes, and helps to avoid our
holiday from being marred by discomforts and uneasiness. “Climb high, sleep
low", “Take it slow" and “Drink plenty of fluids" are the secret
mantras many have successfully adopted in the Himalaya.
A short climb to the village of
Syangboche (3,841m/12,600 ft) and the Everest View Hotel, just above Namche, is
a popular half-day excursion. The small but interesting village of Syangboche
lies at the lap of Khumbi Yul Lha and boasts an unpaved airstrip that counts as
one of the highest elevated airports in the world. Though not extensively used
for its concern for reasonable acclimatisation elevation, the airstrip does
welcome occasional helicopters and tiny Pilatus Porter planes carrying tourists
for a quick visit to Namche Bazaar. The Everest View Hotel, little higher up
the village, offers an undulating view of Mt. Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam
from the hotel terrace, all enjoyed with a cup of tea and splendid mountain
surroundings.
If we wish to continue a little
further up, a 30-minute walk, either to the village of Khunde or Khumjung,
offers engaging explorations of the quaint communities and the often quite
trails to reach them. Khumjung (3,790m/12,430ft) sits a little below and
welcomes guests to its monastery where a purported "Yeti Scalp" is
placed on exhibition. Kunde houses the Kunde Hospital, founded by Sir Edmund
Hillary in 1966. Both villages lie adjacent to each other in the valley at the
foot of the sacred mountain Khumbi Yul Lha (5,761m/18,901ft), “God of
Khumbu".
Overnight:
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and
Dinner
From Namche, the trail now sits
high above the valley offering us with continues view of Mt. Everest, Lhotse,
Shanti Shikar (7,591m/24,905ft) and Ama Dablam (6,812m/22,349ft) as we pass
through rhododendron forests and small villages. Our foot trail soon starts to
make a descend toward Imja Drengkha Khola (Imja River). We cross the bridge at
Phunki Tenga (3,250m/ 10,663ft) and pass the check post for the Sagarmatha
National Park, at the base of Kangtega mountain (‘The Yak Saddle' at
6,782m/22,251ft). And it’s back to climbing the long winding ascend through
rhododendron and conifer forests accompanied by smiling monks, attentive
trekkers, singing porters and uninterested herds of yak caravans sharing the
trail. Keep a look out for Blood Pheasants and Himalayan Monals scratching the
ground underneath for food or for Red-Headed Bullfinch calling out atop a
branch.
At the end of the excursive
climb, a chorten (stupa) welcomes us to the village of Tengboche
(3,867m/12,687ft). Sitting on a forested ridge of Kangtega, the village is
famous for its holy Buddhist monastery and the magnificent panoramic views of
the Himalaya that include Tabuche Peak (6,495m/1,121ft), Mt. Everest
(8,848m/29,029ft), Lhotse (8,516m/27,940ft), Nuptse (7,861m/25,791ft) and Ama
Dablam (6,812m/22,349ft). The stunning panorama has been photographed and
captured with much enthusiasm in various publications and media.
The Dawa Choling Gompa, popularly
known as the Tengboche Monastery, is the oldest and the holiest pilgrimage site
in the region. Built in 1916, the monastery has seen many renovation projects
and has survived earthquakes and fire. The Rinpoche (honourable special monk)
of the monastery blesses the general public at the end of the auspicious
festival of Mani Rimdu, held during the tenth lunar month of the Tibetan
Calendar. In the afternoon, the monastery allows visitors who can receive
special blessings from the residing monks.
Overnight:
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
We may be awoken by the sounds of
prayers, horns and cymbals from the monastery very early in the morning. The
trail from Tengboche descends through forest to the tiny hamlet of Deboche and
the historic Deboche nunnery. Passing through Sherpa houses and ‘mani’ walls,
we cross the suspension bridge over a beautiful gorge, where a short climb is
rewarded by an awe-inspiring view of Ama Dablam. Numerous chortens and mani
walls decorate the trail, and soon we arrive at the stone-walled fields of
Pangboche village. The Pangboche monastery, located on top of a small climb
over the village, holds in exhibit a ‘Yeti’ scalp and claw, and their
authentications must be left to the viewers themselves.
The trail leading from the
clustered Pangboche soon appears rugged and sparsely vegetated, reflecting the
higher elevation we now traverse. We now feel the effect of the altitude and
our mantra, taking the climb slowly with enough rest, helps. The villages of
Somare and Orsho arrive relatively quickly with short ascents, but most of the
afternoon trail remains gentle. Yak pastures and herders’ small cottages breast
the pathway that runs concurrent with the Imja Drengkha Khola (Imja River),
with Tabouche Peak rising to our left. We cross a wooden bridge and make our
way up a final climb, before a long mani wall welcomes us to the village of
Dingboche (4,410m/14,470ft).
Overnight:
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and
Dinner
The remote village of Dingboche
lies on the stunning Chukung Valley surrounded by majestical Himalayan giants.
The summer farm village is, undoubtedly, one of the highest elevated places
where agriculture can be found with barley fields sprawled along the Imja
Khola.
Interesting acclimatisation
excursions can be made in the valley. Perhaps the most strenuous one is the
hike to Nangkartshang Gompa (5,083m/16,676ft), but as the saying goes “the best
view comes after the hardest climb" and the excursion does not fail to
deliver. A breath-taking view of the Himalayan grandeur with a 360-degree view
of endless mountains await those we make it to the gompa. Mt. Everest, Lhotse,
Nuptse, Makalu, Taboche Peak, Ama Dablam, Island Peak, Pumori, Amphu Laptse and
many more clamour the sky, while the Chukung valley corridor with tiny villages
and farms extend below. For those who find the hike stressful can enjoy similar
views from the yak pastures, below on the ridge. The excursion to Nangkartshang
Gompa is quite exhausting and it is understandable for casual trekkers to
turnback from a comfortable elevation – a job done; we’ve climbed high enough
for a well-deserved rest back at the valley.
Likewise, a 5 hour round trip to
the village of Chukung (4,730m/15,518ft), north-east of Dingboche, also offers
an interesting alternative. This small lodge village was once a yak pasture,
but now sees arrival of mountaineers and trekkers looking for ‘off the
well-trodden EBC’ experience.
For the above acclimatisation
walks, it is fair practice to gain a comfortable altitude and return back to
Dingboche for an evening of rest. The primary objective of the day is to aid in
acclimatisation, rest and prepare for the final days to Everest Base Camp.
Overnight:
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and
Dinner
This morning we head up north,
slowly ascending the ridge toward the tiny hamlet of Dughla (4,620m/15,160ft).
The path climbs rather steeply, laden with boulders and rocks from the moraine
that marks the end of Khumbu glacier. Tabouche and Cholatse Peaks towers over
the trail to our left, and beyond them is the corridor to Gokyo Valley, area we
will soon be trekking on during our return. We continue on the stiff path, wild
and rugged, as it crests over a rise with series of chortens before arriving at
Tokla Pass (4,830m/15,846ft) where many memorial cairns tributed to the fallen
mountaineers in the Khumbu region are seen. Soon the valley opens up with
Pumori Peak (7,161m/23,494ft) appearing in the distance ahead.
We follow the, often frozen,
stream running at the side of the moraine and keep to the trail at the foot of
the low hills. Soon clusters of lodges in this once a yak grazing summer homes
marks the end of our day’s journey at Lobuche (4,940m/16,210ft). Though a bleak
place, sunset view over Nuptse is quite spectacular from here. An early bed and
plenty of rest should rejuvenate us for the push to Everest Base Camp in the
morning.
Overnight:
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and
Dinner
Big day today, as we finally
arrive at Everest Base Camp. An early morning start is best advice and make
sure to have breakfast, fill up your water bottles and carry some snacks. The
high altitude has a silent way of draining our energies and hitting us when we
least expect.
We continue north-east with our
trail leadings through jumbled rocks and moraine area, staying aware of our
footings as we negotiate between large boulders and irregular stones that are
often covered with hidden icicles. The surrounding sees almost no vegetation
and lifeless except for small conveys of Tibetan Snow Cock and Red-billed
Chough. About two and a half hour later,
we arrive at the sparsely populated Gorakshep, where a small break of tea and
snack offers a much-needed reprise.
The trail continues to battle
with the now-accustomed rocky moraine of the Khumbu glacier and the icy cold
winds from the mountains. During climbing seasons, the trail will be relatively
busy and lively with climbers and yaks carrying supplies line up the route.
About two hours later we arrive at the base camp site which appears not to be a
defined spot but rather a spread-out area where climbers can setup their
expedition base. Although the view of the summit of Mt. Everest is obstructed
by her triangular west shoulder, we can observe the terrifying ice spires and
cathedrals of the infamous Khumbu Icefall closely from the campsite.
“The view was dominated by the Khumbu Icefall, a vast, chaotic mass of
ice, 2000 ft high and roughly half a mile long. Formed by the movement of the
Khumbu Glacier over steep rock, it was a surreal sight: a twisted giant’s
carpet, riven by huge crevasses and covered in apartment-sized blocks and vast
tottering towers of snow and ice.” - Mick Conefrey, Everest 1953.
The high altitude can drag the
return leg back to Gorakshep deceptively longer than the actual walk.
Overnight:
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
“Catching Mt. Everest and the
surrounding peaks before the clouds set in” is an incentive well enough to
start early before dawn. Kala Patthar, the closest viewpoint to Mt. Everest,
sees visitors energetically take the short climb, all to witness an
awe-inspiring sight of the morning lights hit world’s highest summit and the
neighbouring peaks.
The 2-3 hours climb alternates
from gradual to steep gradients the higher we go. The tough excursion soon gets
a needed boost as the summit of Mt. Everest slowly appears. And before long the
rocky summit of Kala Patthar, the highest point of our trek, is reached.
The stupendous 360-degree view
from Kala Patthar feels like a deserving reward for all the hard works done in
the past few days. In the east, Mt. Everest, Nuptse and the Tibetan peak
Changtse (7,543m/24,747ft) hogs all of our attentions. The northern view is
dominated by the beautiful Pumori (‘Mountain Daughter' at 7,161m/23,494ft),
whose southern ridge locates Kala Patthar. The west sees beautiful rises of
spires, peaks and snow-covered ridges. Looking south we see the familiar
mountains of Ama Dablam, Kantega and Thamserkhu, gently reminding us of the
many villages and people we came across on our traverse. Down below, as we
extend our gaze, the rugged site of Everest base camp and the frozen Khumbu
glacier streams down the foothills.
A celebratory
mood takes us over as we descend slowly to Gorakshep and retrace our trail back
down all the way to Lobuche.
Overnight:
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and
Dinner
From Lobuche we return toward
Dughla, before heading toward a small heading that contours around a steep
hillside. Once the corner is reached, we turn north-west where the beautiful
turquoise glacial lake Chola Tsho comes into view. Cholatse rises majestically
from the shores of Chola Tsho, and paints a dramatic picture together with the
neighbouring Taboche Peak. The trail keeps well above the lake as we gradually
ascend to Dzong La (4,830m/15,846ft), a small alpine settlement. The exciting
valley stares at Arakam Tse peak (6,423m/21,072ft) immediately to the south and
offers fabulous viewpoints.
Our day ends early with easy
exertions, allowing us to recover from the efforts of the last few days and
prepare for tomorrow’s big crossing.
Note: It is advisable to best
avoid the pass in snow and bad weather. In such cases, options to go to Gokyo
by a lower path can be discussed with the guide.
Accommodation:
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and
Dinner
Today we expect an adventurous
long day ahead. Even though, many travel across the pass every year, it would
still be best to have a cautionary approach and alertness to our environment
and steps. Our traverse continues into the pastures of the wide valley,
gradually heading toward the foot of the pass. The climb starts on a moraine
ridge and ascend steeply over walls of large rocks and boulders. Soon ice and
snowfield replace the bare rocks, and the views of the glacier ahead is
fabulous. We follow the glacier on a fairly gentle incline to reach the high
point of the Cho La pass (5,420m/17,782ft). Also called the Chhugyuma La, the
pass offers amazing views of Kyajo Ri (6,186m/20,295ft) and the jagged Gokyo
ridges to the west, Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse and beyond to the east.
The descent from the pass is
steep initially and requires cautionary footings, before flattening on the
arrival of a small lake. A brief climb on a moraine ridge is followed by a
continued descent all the way to Dragnag.
Accommodation:
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and
Dinner
Dragnak sits on the edge of the
moraine of Ngozumba Glacier, flowing down from Cho Oyu (6th highest mountain at
8,188m/26,864ft) and the surrounding peaks. The route crosses the glacier on a
winding path that changes each year with the movement of the glacier. At the
end of the crossing, we drop down to join the trail to the scenic village of Gokyo
and series of beautiful turquoise lakes.
The first lake, Langpungo Tsho,
we approach is the smallest, followed by Taboche Tsho, the second lake. The
lakes host golden Brahminy ducks and offer sights to admire, of the broad
valley towered by Cho Oyu, a massive glacier, and the lovely village of Gokyo
(4,790m/15,715ft) banking the third lake just ahead. The path gets spectacular,
evermore scenic, as we reach the large third lake, the Gokyo Tsho, and the
Gokyo village. The third lake, also known by her Hindu name of Dudh Pokhari, is
considered a sacred site by both Buddhists and Hindus.
The rest of the afternoon can be
spent exploring the area, taking a walk to the other lakes – Thonak Tsho and
Ngozumba Tsho, or taking in a well-deserved rest and relaxing at the Himalayan
surreal paradise.
Overnight:
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and
Dinner
Taking advantage of the early
morning weather, which normally stays clear and deteriorates toward the
afternoon, we start out early for a hike to Gokyo Ri (5,360m/17,585ft), a hill
behind the village. The base of Gokyo Ri lies a short walk from the village
across the lake's inlet creek. The summit is “only” 570 metres /1,900 feet from
the lakeside village, and the average gradient of the climb is...well it’s the
Himalaya. A two to three hours of what sums up as ‘putting our lungs and
hamstring to the test', the climb is simply a ‘get to the top’ effort. Never
will there be a better day to follow on the occasional advice of ‘bistari,
bistari’ meaning ‘slowly, slowly’ or ‘head up at ease’ from our trek staff as
we huff and puff our way to the summit.
Draped in prayer flags, the
summit treasures a view unrivalled by any other locales in the Himalaya. Four
of the six highest mountains dominate the skyline – Mt.Everest (highest at
8,848m/29,029ft), Lhotse (4th at 8,516m/27,940ft) and further up Makalu (5th at
8,481m/27,838ft) lies in the east, with Cho Oyu (6th at 8,188m/26,864ft) to the
north. And accompanying these elite company, there’s more with entire horizon
visible with jagged snowy peaks. The valley floor is pristine with three
turquoise Gokyo Lakes, the scenic lakeside village and the Ngozumba Glacier
(the largest in Khumbu at 36km/22miles) thundering down. All around us ice,
snow and glacial moraines stretch the awe-inspiring landscape. Many finds the
view hard to express in words, and well worth the strenuous efforts to arrive
here.
The descend takes us back to
Ngozumba Glacier and Gokyo village, and to the village of Machhermo (4,470m/14,665ft).
Essentially a summer farming and pasture village, Machhermo sits on a cove with
open views of the surrounding mountains. If we can allow ourselves a 2-3 hours
round trip, a hill (around 4,900m/16,076ft) behind the village offers
exploration and views.
Overnight:
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and
Dinner
The trail continues down through
Luza (4,400m/14,435ft), a tiny hamlet and onto grasslands and open meadows. The
neighbouring peaks of Taboche and Cholatse(6,440m/21,130ft) rises proudly on to
our left, with the dominating Cho Oyu now behind us.
We pass the village of Dhole
(4,200m/13,780ft) and descend down to the Dudh Koshi river. Ahead, the sacred
mountain Khumbi Yul Lha (“God of Khumbu", 5,761m/18,901ft), Kangtega (“The
Yak Saddle", 6,782m/22,251ft) and Thamserku (6,623m / 21,729ft) paints a
dramatic landscape as the trail enters rhododendron and birch forest. Keep an eye
for musk deers and Pheasants scavenging for food, and spectacular ice
waterfalls along the shaded forest. The trail meets the river in Phortse Tenga
(3,680m/12,074ft) where the trail to Pangboche heads off across the wooden
bridge to the left.
The path here becomes steep as we
ascend an hour’s climb to Mong La (3,973m/13,035ft), a small pass that is said
to be the birth place of the levitating Lama Sanghwa Dorje. A large chorten and
prayer flags honour the birthplace at the pass which towers over the confluence
of the Dudh Koshi river flowing down from the Gokyo valley, and the Imja
Drengkha river streaming from Everest. The view from the stupa is
breath-taking, particularly of the majestic Ama Dablam, and the Hunku valley
peaks hidden behind the ridges of Kangtega mountain.
Overnight: Lodge/Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
The path contours around hillside
as we traverse from Mong La, descending down stone steps and mani walls to the
hidden farm village of Tashinga (3,450m/11,319ft). From here we re-join the
main trail to Everest base camp as it gently curves around the hillside above
the Dudh Koshi river. A quick stop at the Sagarmatha National Park Museum just
above Namche Bazaar, offers an interesting history and cultural insight into
the region, if we did not have the time to visit on our way up.
The gradient gradually gets steep
on the descend down from Namche to the Hillary bridge and should take us a
little more than an hour to reach the riverbed. We trek alongside the river
through Dudh Koshi valley and to the Sagarmatha National Park's en6 checkpoint
in Jorsalle. Just past the checkpoint, we arrive at Monjo, a quiet village
where the climate gets warmer.
Overnight:
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and
Dinner
We are on the main trail and
retrace our steps back to Lukla. A little detour to Gumela Monastery takes us
across the Dudh Koshi river and off the crowded trail. A little less than a
30-minute climb brings us to the small farming village of Gumela, on a hill
above Phakding. The Pema Chholing Gompa or the Gumela Monastery has around 20
monks and nuns in residence, and houses the learning centre for all Sherpa
culture, languages and religion to the region. Do not be surprised when little
children, on their studies at the monastery, are eager to guide you around the
Gompa. There are views of Thamserkhu and Kusum Kanguru (6,367m/20,899ft) on the
rises directly before the hill of the monastery.
We re-join the main trail at
Phakding and head toward Ghat (2,530m/8,350ft) for our lunch. The climb leading
to Lukla is deceptively long as we pass collections of houses and mani stones
through scrub forests. One final climb later, the houses and hotels of Lukla
slowly approaches and rapidly gets crowded and noisy as we near the airstrip.
Our final night in Khumbu ends in a celebratory mood.
Overnight:
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and
Dinner
An early breakfast provides us
with ample time to make our way to the airport. The airport, in itself, is very
small and gets crowded easily with few passengers, airport staffs and security.
Lukla is notorious for its
unpredictable weather which may cause flight delays or even cancellations. We
shall do the utmost to ensure best services are available. The extra day in
Kathmandu should offer a cushion should our Lukla flight be cancelled
overnight.
And of course, before we leave
the Himalayan mountains behind, we are offered one last enthralling experience
as the tiny plane gathers speed while stationary at the top of the short runway
before launching into a sudden acceleration to catch enough lift for an amazing
take off. A quick climb over the Lamjura pass and then the plane descends
slowly toward Kathmandu valley.
Overnight: Four-star Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
After an amazing time in the
Himalaya, today we reserve a day to unwind, rest and take in leisurely
activities among the colourful crowds of Kathmandu. There are shopping and
souvenirs to hunt and complete our travel memorabilia, or a city tour and
sightseeing programs at the many cultural heritage sites, or just simply
relaxing with drinks in our hands.
There are numerous heritage sites, all with short distances of each other, inside the Kathmandu valley. None more significant than the Hindu pilgrimage complex of the holy Pashupatinath Temple and the serene Buddhist stupas of Bodhanath and Swayambhunath. The ancient royal courtyards of the three Durbar (Palace) Squares of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur, offers fantastic insights into the golden age of Newa cultures and their rich architectures and craftsmanship. The programs in Kathmandu are not included in the cost nor part of our itinerary. They are optional activities you can participate on your arrival.
Our evening is shared with a one
last hurrah. A celebratory farewell dinner in honor of you and the many more
adventures to come.
Overnight: Four-star Hotel
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Here we bid our farewell and wish
you a nice flight back home. Our office representative will pick you up at the
hotel for your transport to the international airport.
from US$ 2300 per person
SERVICES INCLUDED
SERVICES NOT INCLUDED
HOW FIT DO I NEED TO BE TO DO THE EVEREST BASE CAMP & GOKYO TREK
The Everest Base Camp Trek alone, in its entirety is considered one of the most physical challenging walks, and adding the arduous trek to Gokyo Ri immediately after the high crossing of Chogo La, to the itinerary makes the Everest Base Camp & Gokyo Trek a strenuous endeavour that demands high motivation and fitness. We go over 5,000 meters (16,500 feet) three times during our trek, and even though there are no technical sections, the itinerary is most suited for individuals with comprehensive walking experiences in high mountain environments. The program favours for slow and easy-paced trekking to aid in acclimatisation, with plenty of opportunities to stop, absorb the mesmerising views, take photos or have a cup of tea along the trail.
It pays to be fit and healthy enough to be able to enjoy the best of Everest. However, your training routine does not need to be hard-core, or one fit for mountaineering expeditions or running a cross-fit marathon. This is trekking, it is supposed to be an easy walk on familiar pace, while enjoying the outdoor - a total de-stressing experience that in retrospect results in a toned, healthy and detoxed trekker. Simply put, the best preparation for a multi-day trek is to practice walking for multiple days. If you are able to find small hills and even mountains around your area, do visit them often and built up your legs, shoulders and even back muscles. These practice hikes should also help you to test out your gears and to find out what and how much you would like to carry on your daypack. Nevertheless, if you are unable to find time for daily walks and hikes, there are number of gym machines and light exercises that should help you to build your strength, balance and stability. Any cardiovascular activities such as body pumps, Pilates and aerobics that builds up your heart rate and lungs are all excellent preparations for a high Himalayan trek. Do take advices from medical and physical experts before drawing up your training routines.
In conclusion, the general rule of thumb is to take it easy. It is a walking holiday with plenty of stoppages for photo calls and cultural interest, so one does not necessarily need to overdo their training regimes. Exercise appropriately enough to avoid any serious health issues or injuries, and allows you to enjoy a gratifying week or two of trekking in the majestic Himalaya.
WHEN TO TREK TO THE EVEREST REGION
Located at the north- eastern region of Nepal, Everest, like the rest of the country enjoys a cycle of four distinct seasons annually – short spring, monsoon summers, moderate autumns and cold winters. Spring arrives in March and April, bringing stable weather and preferrable temperatures, though the skies might stay little cloudier. With fresh flowerings and warm conditions, the trails remain ideal and easily attracts sizeable crowd of visitors to the region. Late May sees warm and humid air beginning to move in from the Indian Ocean and settles as dense fog in the Himalayas obscuring the mountain views. Soon, monsoon arrives with a long rainy summer that last till mid-September. The trails remain relatively quiet with few gutsy trekkers disregarding the soggy conditions. However, the flights to Lukla Airport are often disrupted with long delays and cancellations caused by low cloud coverings and minimum visibilities that may last for weeks. Air passengers generally play a waiting game with the weather Gods during the rainy season. The summer monsoon leaves behind a green and lush countryside which stays through autumn and early winter months. With dry and cold air coming down from Tibet the weather stays clear, crisp and stable, granting another busy spell in Everest. Late-December sees villagers heading down toward warmer lowlands, before the winter storms bring large amounts of snow to the region, blocking the trail and often burying teahouses. Before long, warm air from Indian Ocean arrives in March, raising the temperature and condenses rapidly to begin the monsoon cycle again. Quite different to the conditions at the lower elevations for trekkers, climbers tend to take advantage of the small period when the winds are lighter and conditions are much favourable in the mountains, around the beginning and the end of monsoon. May and September launch the climbing season with crowds of expeditions arriving early for proper acclimatization. With sold-out flights and accommodations, costs at the periods will be at their height.
It is possible to travel to Everest throughout much of the year. Spring (March–April) and autumn (October–November) are the popular periods that see busy trail and fully occupied teahouses, so do book in advance. The summer monsoon has less crowded trail but brings with it travel disruptions, cloudy weathers, obscured views and soggy experiences.
ACCOMODATIONS ON THE EVEREST BASE CAMP & GOKYO TREK
Comfortable lodges or teahouses are now a common sight at Everest. The simple lodges are run by local families and are relatively basic with small adequate rooms furnished with little more than twin bench-beds, thin mattress, blanket and a pillow. So, your sleeping kit (3 season is normally enough) will probably see an early use. While the rooms remain unheated, a large stove, burnt with wood or cattle dung, in the central communal areas provides heat for a snuggly atmosphere. Each floor shares a common bathroom and toilet, with running cold water and squat toilets, though few lodges have installed sit-down flush toilets. Wi-Fi, charging facilities and hot water, where available are charged extra. The hot showers are powered by gas, and is advised to ask for assistance from the lodge staff before operating them. Appropriately, the higher we go into the mountains more basic the lodges are.
WORRIED ABOUT GETTING HUNGRY ON YOUR TREK
A worked-up appetite from long hours of trekking is now easily sated by the excellent mixtures of local Nepali food and western recipes offered by the lodges. Hungry trekkers will find everything from pastas to burgers and beers in the lodges along the route. Words of advices, the lodges get quite busy at meal times, so do place your meal order as soon as you can as it is strictly ‘first-come-first-served'. And the western-style options may not be what you would expect back home. Many trekkers find the authentic Nepali set of ‘dal-bhat’, a combination of dal (lentil soup), bhat (rice), vegetable curry and pickle cooked with mostly local grown eatables and home-made ingredients, is nutritious and cheap. Although you get a lot for your money, an extra budget of around UD$ 30.00 - US$ 35.00 per day, minimum, should help cover for your meal, drinks and personal expenses during the trekking days, and ensures that you enjoy your Himalayan adventure a lot.
PACKING LIST FOR EVEREST
Even though, we start off our trek from Lukla at only 2,835m/9,334ft, the gushing winds from the mountains bring in a tundra climate, where even the warmest of the month have relatively low temperatures. You will never be as close to the sun anywhere in the world than in the Himalayas where the air is thin and the radiation at the maximum. It’s easy to get sun burn or dark tans but don’t let that fool you or let the cold winds from the Himalayas catch you off-guard. Always wear protective layers that can be easily dressed up or down to your likings. Of course, packing for travel is an adventure or a mis-adventure in itself, but when you throw in the cold artic conditions of the Himalayas, the packing list becomes a puzzle of weight, space and what ifs.
Well, let’s keep them simple and basic. All we need are clothing that will keep us warm, dry, protected from the sun/rain/wind, and are comfortable to move in the mountains. You do not require too many changes of clothing and it is perfectly normal to wear the same for few days or even a week. Make sure you are comfortable with the contents and weight of your daypack, and do not forget to bring in one healthy dose of what Sir John Hunt, the leader of the successful 1953 British Everest Expedition, would call ‘the Excelsior Spirit’. Below, we present you a basic comprehensive packing list suitable for any trek in Nepal.
Note: The flight to Lukla has a weight limit of 15 kgs (33lb) per passenger, including both luggage and hand carry. Any excess baggage may have to wait for available space on a later flight.
BAGS - A large Duffle bag/Rucksack (~80L) for a porter to carry. The porters are only allowed to carry a fixed weight of 15kgs (33lb). A comfortable Medium Daypack (~40L) should be large enough to carry your drinks, snacks, medic kits, extra clothing and accessories you may need during your walk.
SHELL CLOTHING – Breathable water proof layers are the best and lightest to keep off those Himalayan wind/rain. These layers avoid condensations from body heat which may be experienced from nylon waterproofs.
INSULATION - Warm layered system to keep your body, hands and head comfortable in the evenings or even during the trek.
BASELAYER – Adding thin layers when conditions get cold, and stripping down when it gets hot is the way to go. Plus, there are light, stays dry and wick away sweats quickly.
FEET – Comfortable and broken-in, waterproof hiking boots that support your ankles over rough terrain. Lighter footwear or sandals to change into in the evenings. A pair of reasonably thick loop stitch socks should be enough for the six days of trekking and help protect the feet against blisters.
EATING/DRINKING - Water bottles/Hydration pack & your favourite snacks from home during the day.
WASHING & MEDICAL - To allow you to wash and maybe stave off a headache or blisters.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES – Your smartphone to stay connected where you can or even your favourite adventure camera. Make sure you have the correct supply voltages and electronic plugs that are compatible in Nepal for your chargers. Nepal operates on 230V standard voltage and frequency of 50Hz, with most lodges using sockets for Type C, Type M or Type D plugs.
The trails, now a days, can be a bit of a fashion runway with people sporting the latest and the most expensive outdoor trends. You don’t have to go overboard. It is also ok to express your own personal styles and expressions, but do find a healthy balance between comfort and durability.
Join our mailing list to receive news, updates, offers and e-brochures.
Copyright © 2022, All Right Reserved. Developed & Maintained By DevOps Technology