Polar Trek

Everest-Cho La Pass & Gokyo Ri

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Good to know

Duration16 days

Difficultymoderate

Max Altitude5,550 m

Group Size1 +

Trip StartsKathmandu

Trip EndsKathmandu

Group StyleGroup and Private

ActivitiesTrekking

Best SeasonMar-Jun & Sept-Dec

Highlights

  • Discover the picturesque Gokyo Valley, Cho La Pass and its awe-inspiring lakes.
  • Ascend Gokyo Ri for stunning panoramic views of Everest and surrounding peaks.
  • Immerse in Sherpa culture, passing through villages like Namche Bazaar and Machhermo.
  • Witness the incredible Ngozumba Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal.
  • Explore the bustling hub of Namche Bazaar, a gateway to the Everest region.
  • Embrace the tranquility of the Gokyo Lakes, a haven of serenity amidst the mountains.
  • Capture sunrise over Everest from the vantage point of Gokyo Ri.
  • Experience the hospitality of local teahouses and lodges along the trail.

Overview about Everest-Cho La Pass & Gokyo Ri

The Everest Gokyo Trekking route is a delightful 16-day expedition that leads you to the spectacular Gokyo Valley including Cho La Pass and Gokyo-Ri. This trek showcases the surreal Gokyo Lakes, nestled amidst the towering peaks of Cho Oyu (8,188m) and Everest (8,848m). Traverse through traditional Sherpa villages, lush rhododendron forests, and serene alpine meadows. Ascend Gokyo Ri for panoramic Himalayan vistas and explore the Gokyo Lakes, an ethereal sequence of turquoise gems that leave you spellbound.

Itinerary

Day 0: Arrival and Orientation

Airport picks up on arrival and transfers to hotel. On arrival at the hotel, short arrival info and trip plan.

Day 1: Kathmandu to Lukla (2,840m) and trek to Phakding village (2610m) 3 and half hrs, lunch camp.

An early morning flight to Lukla airport (2,840m) with amazing views of mountain and beautiful landscapes takes us to gateway to Everest Base Camp and the land of Sherpas. Our trek heads through the village of Lukla, descending to along the east bank of the Dudh Kosi river, by a gentle hike and level meandering walk to Phakding village.

Day 2: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440m) 6 hrs, including lunch break.

After breakfast trek along the bank of Dudh Kosi, the trail goes through  rhododendron forest and pine trees to Jorsalle village. Shortly after completing check post formalities we cross the Dudh Kosi via suspension bridge to start a gradual up hill to Namche Bazaar, (Sherpa Capital). We encounter our first sight of Everest and Lhotse, great view of the mountains across the valley.

Day 3: Namche Bazaar, for acclimatization, 4 hrs hike.

To allow us to adjust to the high altitude. Explore the local market, observe the local culture, hike up to the Everest viewpoint or simply relax. Time is available to make an excursion to either the village of Syangboche (3,720m). At Syangboche is where the worlds highest airstrip is located and to the west stands Mount Kongde. The trail here is a steep ascent along small pine trees and juniper shrubs, and route looms Khumbi Yul Lah.
Later descent down to lodge and relax.

Day 4: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,860m) 5 and half hrs, including lunch break.

The trail ascends out of the village and flat path along the valley with great views of Everest, Nuptse and Lhotse. There is a steep descent taking us through a forest towards the bridge over the Dudh Kosi. After crossing the river we hike up zigzagging path through a rhododendron forest where we may encounter both musk deer, mountain goats and wild colourful Pheasants(national bird) when we approach Tyangboche, which opens up to breath taking views of Everest, Nuptse, Ama Dablam and Taboche peaks. Tyangboche, famous for its legendary monastery, it is the largest in Khumbu area. There is time to visit both the monastery and museum.

Day 5: Tengboche to Dingboche(4,410m) 6 hrs, including lunch break.

The day commences with a gradual hike through meadows and a pine forest towards a small bridge over the Imja river, and then a climb to Dingboche with spectacular views of Ama Dablam. In the route we pass through Pangboche the home of the most ancient monastery in the region and the Gompa which houses the famous Yeti scalp.

Day 6: Dingboche to Labuche(4,910m) 5 hrs, including lunch break

Heading up to the wide valley beneath the impressive peaks of Cholatse (6,335m) and Taboche (6,367m), but well above the tree line we reach Thukla. As we approach the foot of the Khumbu Glacier the climb becomes steeper. We take the zigzag path up through the boulders of the moraine to reach Labuche. On the route we have superb views of Pumo Ri Nuptse, and Kala Pathar.

Day 7: Labuche to Gorakshep(5,140m) EBC(5,364m), 8 hrs including lunch break.

An early start to a challenging day to accomplish our dream that is EBC. The route commences with a gentle ascent as we continue along the side of the Khumbu Glacier, which becomes rocky and awkward for a short time. Rewarded with breathtaking views, of Pumo Ri (7,165m) lies directly ahead, on the right Nuptse (7,861m)  sight of Everest (8,848m). A descent brings us to Gorakshep (5,140m) where we lunch and rest before taking the trail to Everest Base Camp.After exploring Base Camp and we return to Gorakshep for a well-deserved rest.

Day 8: Ascend to Kalapatthar(5550m) and trek down to Dzongla village(4,830m) 8 hrs, including lunch break.

Breathtaking scenery today is the highlight. It is another early morning start to see dawn break and capture this amazing daily event as Everest and surrounding peaks reveal themselves. An intricate ascending route threads its way through crevasses and over moraine ridges. At Kala Pathar’s summit (5,550m) there is an unforgettable panorama view of Ama Dablam, Makalu, Nuptse, Lhotse and the impressive black pyramid of Everest. When it is time to leave with our indelible memory of all that is before us we retrace our steps to Gorakshep and trek continues down to our destination via Lobuche passing a number of streams pastures of Dzongla, a small village that situated at the buttom of Cholatse (6,335m).

Day 9: Dzongla to Thagnag village(4,700m) via Cho-la pass(5,330m) 8 hrs, including pack lunch.

Wake up early in the morning have breakfast and start the trek over the Cho La (5,330m) pass; with amazing wilderness between Dzongla and today’s resting place, we depart with a packed lunch. The trail is well defined as we leave the grazing pastures behind and start our ascent to the pass. Crossing a small glacier, which is usually covered in snow, is reasonably straightforward as we continue our hike to Cho La’s summit. From here and there are great views with different aspects of the mountains seen before. A steep descent is made to Thagnag, a small Sherpa hamlet, taking us along a moraine and rock trail and through a boulder field.

Day 10: Thagnag to Gokyo lake(4,790m) 3 hrs, lunch camp.

After the breakfast the trail takes us along the eastern side of Gokyo Valley. Shortly we will be crossing the Nagozumba Glacier, which is well marked with cairns. At the top of the moraine overlooking the Nagozumba Glacier we hike down along the river which leads us to the beautiful turquoise waters of the Gokyo Lake where Gokyo village, a small settlement, lies on its shores. Rest of the day is free for you to explore the village and lakes.

Day 11: Gokyo Rest day, hike up to Gokyo Ri view point(5,355m) 4 hrs.

Special day: After breakfast we start early this morning to ascend Gokyo Ri view point, a small peak above Gokyo village and lakes. The views on the way up are fantastic, it offers you the 360º view at the summit. It is one of the best views in the world, and some would say the best in Nepal. In front of you are mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho-Oyu etc.. also from the lake we will have a close up view of the sixth highest mountain in the world Mount Cho Oyu 8,188m. Retracing our steps we return to the Lodge and relax at the village.

Day 12: Day Gokyo to Dhole village(4,200m) 6 hrs, including lunch break.

Wake up in the morning have breakfast and descend to Dhole village. we pass the other 2 lakes where can see the ducks has made it home then cross a wooden bridge in the trail that we descend to Machhermo village, The valley widens as we reach Panggka village. The descent continues high above the river through juniper forests until we reach to Dole where we have Beautiful views of Kyajo Ri, Khumbila and Taboche peak, Thamserku peak.

Day 13: Dhole village to Khyanguma village(3,550m) 6 hrs, including lunch break.

After breakfast we pass through the pastures that are used in the summertime to graze yaks. Our descent takes us through juniper woodland then into rhododendron forests, waterfall’s, until we reach Phortse Tanga village. The trail ascends zigzag to Mong la Danda, the view is fantastic here, then followed by a descent to Khyangjoma village.

Day 14: Khyangjoma to Phakding (2,610m) via Namche Bazaar 7 hrs, including lunch break.

We retrace the way through the rhododendron and pine forest to the valley. We follow the Dudh Koshi river downhill on our way back to Phakding via beautiful villages.

Day 15: Phakding to Lukla (2,840m) 3 and half hrs.

Now it’s time to recall our moment. The day we started with all the hopes and excitement. Finally, we are at Lukla again, completing our journey to EBC and Cho la, Gokyo Ri. Enjoy the Sherpa hospitality.

Day 16: Lukla to Kathmandu by flight, 30 minutes.

We take the great flight to Kathmandu: hotel transfer and free day.

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Trip Map

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Inclusions

What‘s included

    ECAP entrance fee and Khumbu Gaunpalika Permit.
    A highly experience, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking, well-trained, Government license holding guide.
    02 guest to 01 porter (Max weight limit for a porter- 20 kg (10 kg per trekker, weight limit).) with their insurance, salary, food, accommodation and equipment.
    We provide an assistant guide his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance walking with group to support where necessary as per the group size.
    Accommodation in the mountain during the trekking.
    Three meals a day; breakfast, lunch and dinner and tea/coffee during the trekking.
    To and fro Transportation to Kathmandu Airport and Hotel.
    Snacks (cookies) and seasonal fresh fruits every day.
    First aid kit box.

What‘s excluded

    Your Nepal Visa fees.
    All the International air fare to and from Kathmandu.
    All meals and accommodation in Kathmandu and in Pokhara.
    Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kathmandu/Chitwan transportation (if you want we can organize for you with additional cost).
    Personal travel and health insurance as well as insurance for helicopter evacuation.
    In case of extra nights’ accommodation, lunch and dinner in city due to early arrival and late departure as well as early back/return from mountain/trekking (due to any reason) than the given time period of itinerary. We can help you arrange extra nights’ accommodation.
    Your personal expenses such as (laundry, baggage charge, phone calls, battery recharge, bar and beverage bill, boiled or bottle water, hot and cold shower, extra porter.. etc).
    The tips to the trekking crews and drive.
    Extra expenses due to flight delays, strikes, weather condition or any event out of our control.
    Arrangement of emergency evacuation service (should have insurance for emergency evacuation and will be paid by your travel insurance company).

Essential Info

Suggested Equipment List

Duffel/Rucksack bag

Walking Pole

Day pack.

Trekking shoes.

Sports shoes or sandals.

Sun Hat/cap

Warm woolen cap.

Warm fleece jacket or puffy jacket

Waterproof Gore-Tex layer

Pullover or warm sweeter

Raincoat

4/5 pairs of good quality socks

Hand gloves.

2/3 pairs of trekking trousers.

3/4 pairs of trekking shirts.

3/4 pairs of underwear (non cotton preferred).

Sun glasses

Water bottle

4 season sleeping bag

Flash or Torch light

Camera and batteries

FAQs

1. How challenging is the Everest Gokyo Trek?

The Everest Gokyo Trek is rated as a challenging trek. While it doesn’t require technical climbing skills, a reasonable level of fitness is recommended as you’ll be walking for several hours each day.

2. What's the best time to undertake this trek?

The best seasons for the Everest Gokyo Trek are Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to December). The weather is stable, skies are clear, and the trails are vibrant with nature’s beauty.

3. Is altitude sickness a concern on this trek?

Yes, altitude sickness can affect trekkers. Our itinerary includes gradual acclimatization days, allowing you to adjust to higher altitudes and minimize the risk of altitude-related issues.

4. What's the maximum altitude reached during this trek?

The highest point of the trek is Kala Patthar (5,550 m) and Gokyo Ri, standing at an elevation of 5,357 meters. This vantage point offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

5. Are there accommodations along the route?

Yes, there are teahouses and lodges available along the Everest Gokyo Trekking trail. These provide basic amenities such as accommodation and meals. Accommodations might be simpler at higher altitudes.

6. Do I need permits for this trek?

Yes, you’ll need permits like the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and the Khumbu Gaunpalika Permit. Our team will assist you in obtaining these permits.

7. Is prior trekking experience necessary?

Prior trekking experience isn’t mandatory, but some hiking experience and reasonable fitness will enhance your overall trekking experience.

8. What should I pack for the trek?

Pack essential items like warm clothing (layers are key), a sturdy pair of trekking shoes, a backpack, a sleeping bag, a hat, gloves, and sunglasses. Our detailed packing list will help you prepare adequately.

9. How can I book the Everest Gokyo Trek with Polar Trekking and Expeditions PVT. LTD.?

Booking your trek with us is easy! Simply visit our website, choose the Everest Gokyo Trek, and follow the booking instructions. Our dedicated team will be in touch to guide you through the process.

10. What makes Polar Trekking and Expeditions PVT. LTD. the ideal choice for this adventure?

Polar Trekking and Expeditions PVT. LTD. is renowned for its experienced guides, well-crafted itineraries, and commitment to safety. We offer personalized services, ensuring you have an unforgettable and secure trekking experience.

Get ready to embark on the Everest Gokyo Trekking adventure with Polar Trekking and Expeditions PVT. LTD. Your journey through the mesmerizing landscapes of the Everest region awaits, promising a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion.

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