Everest Base Camp Trek – Kala Pattar & Gokyo Lake

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

• Airport Welcome: Upon your arrival at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport, a friendly representative will greet you and handle your transfer to the accommodation.
• Hotel Check-in: Settle into the Kathmandu Prince Hotel or a similar quality hotel, where comfort meets convenience.
• Trek Briefing: Your expert guide will provide a comprehensive briefing about the trek's itinerary, ensuring you're well-prepared for the adventure ahead.
• Meals: Enjoy the freedom to explore local dining options for lunch and dinner on your own.
• Overnight: Rest up at your hotel to rejuvenate for the next day’s exploration.

Day 2: Explore Kathmandu Valley

• Cultural Tour: After breakfast, join a French-speaking cultural guide for a full-day tour from 9 AM to 4 PM. Discover the rich heritage and architectural marvels of the Kathmandu Valley.
• Tailored Experience: The guide will customize the tour to suit your interests, ensuring a personal and engaging experience as you visit historical sites, temples, and markets.
• Meals: Lunch and dinner are at your discretion, providing an opportunity to taste Nepal's diverse culinary offerings.
• Overnight: Spend another night at the hotel, reflecting on the day’s adventures and preparing for the trek ahead.

• Morning Departure: Begin your day with an early breakfast at your hotel in Kathmandu before heading to the airport for one of the most scenic flights in the world to Lukla (2,834m), the gateway to Mount Everest.
• Scenic Flight: The flight to Lukla is a breathtaking experience, offering aerial views of the Himalayas that promise to be as memorable as the trek itself.
• Trek to Phakding: From Lukla, set off on the first segment of your trek to Phakding. This gentle trek is designed to ease you into the experience, with beautiful landscapes and local Sherpa culture to absorb.
  • Elevation Gain: +200m
  • Elevation Loss: -234m
  • Trek Duration: Approximately 3 hours
• Evening at Phakding: After reaching Phakding, settle into a local lodge where you can relax and enjoy a well-earned dinner. This night in the lodge will also help further acclimatize you to the altitude.

• Start with Breakfast: Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your lodge in Phakding to prepare for a day of significant ascent.
• Trek to Jorsale: Begin your trek along the scenic paths beside the Dudh Kosi River, heading towards Jorsale (2,800m). The journey is filled with lush landscapes and the tranquil sound of flowing water.
• Ascent to Namche Bazaar: After crossing the river, tackle a steep climb to Namche Bazaar (3,446m). Although challenging, this section is relatively short and marks a pivotal ascent in your trek towards Everest Base Camp.
  • Elevation Gain: +796m
  • Elevation Loss: -150m
  • Walking Duration: Approximately 6 hours
• Explore Namche Bazaar: Namche is a vibrant Sherpa village and the unofficial capital of the Khumbu region. It's a great place to experience Sherpa culture and hospitality. The village offers a range of shops selling local handicrafts and products, perfect for picking up souvenirs.
• Dinner and Overnight: Conclude your day with dinner at the lodge in Namche, where you can rest and spend the night, enjoying the hospitality of the local community.

• Morning Departure: After enjoying breakfast at the lodge, set out for a vital acclimatization trek to Khumjung, a village nestled in the heart of the Khumbu region. This gentle climb is essential for adapting to the higher altitudes ahead.
• Ascent to Khumjung: The trek to Khumjung takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering a moderate climb that helps your body adjust to the decreased oxygen levels as you ascend.
  • Elevation Gain: +469m
  • Elevation Loss: -215m
  • Walking Duration: Approximately 1h30
• Breathtaking Panoramas: Khumjung is positioned perfectly for panoramic views of Nepal’s highest peaks, including Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. These stunning vistas provide a magnificent backdrop for your trek.
• Cultural Insights: Spend time in Khumjung, which offers a glimpse into the traditional life of the Sherpa people. This village is known for its green-roofed monastery and school established by Sir Edmund Hillary.
• Dinner and Overnight Stay: Enjoy a peaceful evening with dinner at the lodge in Khumjung. Relax and recharge with an overnight stay, surrounded by some of the world's most majestic mountains.

Day 6: Khumjung to Dole

• Start with a Hearty Breakfast: Fuel up at your lodge in Khumjung before starting the day's trek.
• Trek to Dole: Depart Khumjung and begin with a descent to Phortse Thanga. Continue your journey with a gradual climb north to Dole (4,050m), where you will be surrounded by the stark beauty of the Himalayas.
  • Elevation Gain: +740m
  • Elevation Loss: -390m
  • Walking Duration: 6 hours
• Evening in Dole: Enjoy a fulfilling dinner and a restful night at the lodge in Dole, preparing for the next day’s ascent.

Day 7: Dole to Macchermo

• Morning in Dole: After breakfast at the lodge, prepare for a scenic yet moderate trek.
• Journey to Macchermo: The trail leads you through beautiful yak pastures towards Macchermo (4,540m). The trek provides spectacular views of towering peaks and expansive landscapes.
  • Elevation Gain: +620m
  • Elevation Loss: -210m
  • Walking Duration: Approximately 3.5 hours
• Arrival at Macchermo: Arrive in the late afternoon at your lodge in Macchermo, which lies in the shadow of impressive 6,000-meter peaks.
• Relaxing Evening: Unwind with dinner at the lodge, enjoying the tranquil environment and preparing for further adventures.

• Morning Departure: Begin your day at the lodge in Macchermo with a serene start before embarking on today’s trek.
• Ascent to Gokyo Lakes: After exiting Macchermo, engage in a challenging ascent along a stair-like path carved into the rocky terrain. This path gradually leads you to the stunning Gokyo Lakes.
• Arrival at Gokyo Lakes: Be captivated by the shimmering opal colors of the Gokyo Lakes, set against the backdrop of the majestic Cho Oyu and the expansive Lungsampa Glacier. The serene environment and breathtaking views make this one of the highlights of your trek.
  • Elevation Gain: +450m
  • Elevation Loss: -110m
  • Walking Duration: 4 hours
• Evening at Gokyo Lakes: Conclude your day with dinner and a restful overnight stay in a lodge located at an altitude of 4,780m, providing a peaceful setting to reflect on the day’s journey.

• Morning Start: Fuel up with breakfast at your lodge alongside the serene Gokyo Lakes before embarking on one of the most anticipated segments of your trek.
• Climb to Gokyo Ri: Prepare yourself for a challenging but immensely rewarding climb to Gokyo Ri, which stands proudly at an altitude of 5,360 meters. The ascent is steep but feasible, and the path is well-trodden by adventurers from around the world.
• Unrivaled Panoramic Views: Upon reaching the summit, you'll be greeted with one of the most spectacular views in the region. The panorama includes Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Cho Oyu, offering a breathtaking perspective of these legendary peaks bathed in morning light.
  • Elevation Gain: +710m
  • Elevation Loss: -1,090m
  • Trek Duration: Approximately 4 hours
• Descent to Na: After soaking in the vistas, begin your descent to Na, a charming high-altitude hamlet situated at 4,400 meters. This quaint village is primarily inhabited during the summer months, offering a glimpse into seasonal high-altitude living.
• Evening Rest: Conclude your day with dinner and a peaceful overnight stay at the lodge in Na, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s incredible experiences.

Day 10: Na to Phortse

• Morning Start: Begin your day with a nourishing breakfast at the lodge in Na.
• Trek to Phortse: Embark on a scenic trek following the path along the torrent emanating from the Lungsampa Glacier, with majestic views of the Cholotse and Taboche mountains guiding your journey. This less-traveled route offers a tranquil experience as you head towards the Sherpa village of Phortse.
  • Elevation Gain: +510m
  • Elevation Loss: -1010m
  • Duration: 4 hours
• Evening in Phortse: Arrive in Phortse (3,900m) by afternoon, a beautiful village known for its spectacular views and unique location. Settle in for dinner and spend the night at the lodge, enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Day 11: Phortse to Pheriche

• Departure from Phortse: After breakfast at the lodge, continue your trek up the picturesque Khumbu Valley.
• Ascend Towards Pheriche: The trail skirts the impressive Cholotse and Taboche mountains, leading you towards Pheriche, a village known for its stunning views and as a popular stop for trekkers.
  • Elevation Gain: +740m
  • Elevation Loss: -390m
  • Duration: 6 hours
• Arrival at Pheriche: Reach Pheriche (4,250m), where you will be greeted with breathtaking panoramas of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse. The views here are particularly memorable, providing a perfect backdrop for rest and reflection.
• Dinner and Overnight Stay: Enjoy a warm meal and a comfortable night’s rest at the lodge in Pheriche, preparing for the next phase of your adventure.

• Morning Start: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the lodge in Pheriche before setting out on your trek toward higher altitudes.
• Climb to Duglha: Begin the day’s trek with a steady ascent toward the village of Duglha (4,620m). This part of the trail offers incredible views of the surrounding peaks while gradually preparing your body for higher elevations.
• Trek to Lobuche: From Duglha, continue ascending along a rugged trail toward Lobuche (4,925m), a small village nestled at the foot of the Khumbu Glacier. As you approach Lobuche, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Nuptse’s towering summit, a perfect backdrop for photos and reflection.
  • Elevation Gain: +785m
  • Elevation Loss: -105m
  • Trek Duration: 6 hours
• Evening Rest in Lobuche: Upon arrival, settle into your lodge and enjoy a well-deserved dinner. The altitude gain today is significant, so rest and hydration are crucial as you prepare for the upcoming adventure to Everest Base Camp.

• Rest and Acclimatization: This day is reserved for acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust to the high altitude of Lobuche (4,925m). Proper acclimatization is essential to ensure a safe and successful journey to Everest Base Camp.
• Optional Excursion: If you’re feeling fit and well-acclimated, you can embark on a short trek around Lobuche. Explore nearby trails for panoramic views of towering peaks like Nuptse, Pumori, and the sprawling Khumbu Glacier.

• Early Morning Departure: Begin the day early with a trek through the rocky moraine to reach Gorak Shep (5,170m). This section of the trail offers incredible views of the Khumbu Glacier and surrounding Himalayan peaks.
  • Trek Duration to Gorak Shep: Approximately 3.5 hours
• Rest and Refuel: After arriving at Gorak Shep, take a break to rest and enjoy a light meal before attempting the highlight of your trek.
• Ascent to Kala Pattar: Embark on a steep and challenging climb to the summit of Kala Pattar (5,545m), one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Everest region. From the top, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. This is often considered the best vantage point for photographing Everest itself.
  • Elevation Gain: +740m
  • Elevation Loss: -740m
  • Trek Duration: 8 hours (including ascent and descent)
• Return to Lobuche: After soaking in the breathtaking views from Kala Pattar, descend back to Lobuche for dinner and a well-earned night’s rest at the lodge.

• Morning Trek to Everest Base Camp: After a nourishing breakfast at the lodge in Gorak Shep, set out on a journey to one of the most iconic destinations in the world—Everest Base Camp (5,364m). This legendary site serves as the starting point for climbers attempting to summit Mount Everest.
• Walk Along the Khumbu Glacier: Trek along the Khumbu Glacier's moraine, passing through rugged ice formations and stunning glacial landscapes. As you approach the base camp, the air is filled with the spirit of adventure from climbers preparing for their ascent.
• Arrival at Everest Base Camp: Standing at the base camp is a monumental achievement for any trekker, offering an up-close view of Khumbu Icefall and the chance to immerse yourself in the rich climbing history of this iconic landmark.
  • Trek Duration: Approximately 6 hours (round trip)
• Return to Lobuche: After celebrating your achievement and capturing photos at EBC, retrace your steps back to Lobuche. The descent offers a chance to reflect on the incredible landscapes and personal milestones achieved during the trek.
• Dinner and Overnight Stay: Enjoy dinner and a restful night in a lodge at Lobuche, preparing for the next leg of your high-altitude adventure.

Day 16: Lobuche to Dingboche

• Start of the Descent: After breakfast, begin your return journey from Lobuche with a steady descent towards Dingboche (4,410m). The trek offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks as you descend into lower altitudes.
  • Elevation Gain: +140m
  • Elevation Loss: -640m
  • Duration: 6 hours
• Dinner and Overnight Stay: Enjoy dinner and a peaceful night’s rest in a lodge at Dingboche, a popular acclimatization stop for trekkers ascending and descending the Everest region.

Day 17: Dingboche to Tengboche via Pangboche (3,860m)

• Scenic Trek via Pangboche: Pass through the ancient village of Pangboche, home to one of Nepal’s oldest gompas (monasteries). The trail offers a unique cultural experience as you immerse yourself in Sherpa traditions.
• Descent to Tengboche: Continue trekking through alpine forests until you reach Tengboche (3,860m), the spiritual heart of the Khumbu region.
  • Visit Tengboche Monastery: Explore the revered Tengboche Monastery, one of the most significant spiritual sites for trekkers and climbers in the Everest region.
  • Elevation Gain: +250m
  • Elevation Loss: -780m
  • Duration: 6 hours
• Dinner and Overnight Stay: Spend the night at a lodge in Tengboche and enjoy dinner with a stunning mountain backdrop.

Day 18: Tengboche to Jorsale via Namche Bazaar

• Long Descent: Continue your descent through scenic forests and small Sherpa villages on your way to Jorsale. The trail passes through Namche Bazaar, giving you one last opportunity to explore the vibrant Sherpa market town.
  • Elevation Gain: +490m
  • Elevation Loss: -1,540m
  • Duration: 6 hours
• Dinner and Overnight Stay: Arrive in Jorsale, where you’ll enjoy dinner and a restful night at a local lodge.

Day 19: Jorsale to Lukla

• Final Trek: After breakfast, follow the Dudh Koshi River as you head toward Phakding. Continue your journey with a steady ascent back to Lukla (2,860m), marking the completion of your trek.
• Farewell Dinner: Celebrate the end of your adventure with a final dinner at a lodge in Lukla, sharing stories of your incredible journey through the Himalayas.
  • Trek Duration: 6 hours

Day 20: Lukla - Kathmandu
We will take a flight from Lukla to Kathmandu. Lunch and dinner are free and the night will be spent at the hotel.

Day 21: Kathmandu
This day is a safety day in case of a delay in the Lukla-Kathmandu flight. If there is no delay, you will enjoy breakfast at the hotel and then free time in the capital. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 22: Kathmandu
Last breakfast at the hotel before your return flight. You will have some more free time before your transfer by vehicle to the airport according to your flight schedule.