Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake with Helicopter Return

Upon your arrival at the bustling city of Kathmandu, our team will be there carrying your name cards and take you to settle into comfortable hotel in Thamel. You can then take a rest and stroll around the vibrant city streets.

You will take a short and scenic flight to Lukla early in the morning. As you set off the plane, crisp mountain air fills your lungs setting the tone for the journey ahead. The trail generally ascends from Lukla weaving through charming villages and dense pine forests. You will hear sounds of distant rivers which accompanies your footsteps.

assing by chortens and prayer wheels, you will walk through serene atmosphere, gradually making your way to Phakding. The trekking journey is mild which allows you to ease into the rhythm of the trail while soaking in the beauty of Khumbu region.

Following the gentle course of the Dudh Koshi River, the trail meanders alongside its rippling waters, punctuated by a series of rustic suspension bridges that add a hint of adventure to your journey. As you cross these bridges, the landscapes subtly transform guiding you into the heart of the Sagarmatha National Park. The trail becomes its steep ascent, and with each step the air carries the brisk coolness.

This journey goes through gradual elevation signals as you approach to Namche Bazar i.e. vibrant gateway to Everest Region. When you reach this bustling market town, you will see its myriad local shops and inviting cafes where you can pause to sample regional delicacies and engage with fellow travelers.

The fourth day of your trekking voyage is about acclimatization as after such a rapid altitude gain your body craves a day of rest to acclimate properly. In Namche Bazar, this respite transforms into an opportunity to experience the towns unique rhythm. You can also embark on a leisurely hike to nearby viewpoints, where extensive vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys provide both breathtaking beauty and gentle physical challenge. You can also wander through the bustling market streets, savoring the aromas and sounds of local life, while engaging with friendly Sherpa community. This essential pause not only allows your body to adjust to the thinning air but also enriches your journey with moments of cultural immersion and reflective tranquility.

You will head towards Dole on your 5th day of journey stepping away from the main trail to Everest Base Camp and beginning your journey towards the peaceful Gokyo valley. The path winds through lush pine and rhododendron forests, where the scent of fresh earth and blooming flowers fills the air. You will see various towering peaks as you walk through trail.

The path gradually climbs offering a mix of gentle and steep sections along with stunning scenery. You will reach Dole, a quiet mountain village with few lodges by late afternoon. You will be surrounded by nature and crisp mountain air letting you settle in for restful night in this village. 

After a restful night in Dole, you will set off on a short but steep ascend trail towards Machhermo. As you leave the village behind the path gradually climbs along the hillside opening up to sweeping views of the valley below. The terrain becomes more rugged with patches of grass and scattered boulders dotting the landscapes.

After few hours of walking, you will finally reach your destination for a day Machhermo. This quiet settlement consists of few teahouses and lodges, where trekkers rest before continuing their climb. Machhermo is known for a famous Yeti sighting that locals claim happened decades ago. You will be residing at this village before heading towards Gokyo the next day.

Today you leave Machhermo early in the morning. The trail slowly climbs as you continue to ascent. The path is dotted with small patches of wildflowers and rocky outcrops along the way. You will hear soft murmur of streams and a crunch of gravel under your boots. The air grows thinner as you climb higher.

After spending several hours on climbing steadily you will reach the area of the famous Gokyo Lakes. These lakes are known for their striking turquoise color, reflecting the colorful; skies and a stunning snowcapped mountains. You will be resting at beautiful Gokyo village admiring the beauty of breathtaking Himalayan views.

The 8th day of your trek is a rest day to let your body adjust to the high altitude. You will enjoy a quiet morning in a calm village. You can also spend your time strolling around the village and chatting with locals. Many trekkers utilize this day to prepare for the next challenge. You can also hike up to Gokyo Ri (optional hike). The climb reaches about 5,357 meters offering a chance to see panoramic Himalayan views of various mountain. Even if you choose to rest at the lodge this day provides a break to help your body acclimatize for upcoming high passes.

On day 9, the trek is a bit shorter. The path today is a mix of rocky sections and trails that run close to glacier areas. As you move along, you notice the landscape changing from gentle meadows to more rugged uneven terrain. The rocky paths can be challenging but they also give you a closer view of natural beauty around you.

You will reach Dragnag a small settlement offering a quiet place to relax and recharge by mid-day. You will keep slow pace for a day which helps your body to recover from earlier days of climbing while still keeping you moving forward on your adventure.

Today is one of the most challenging days of the trek. You start very early to tackle the steep ascent of Cho LA Pass. The trail here is narrow and winds its way through areas that may be icy or still covered with snow. Each step up the pass is hard, and you need to be cautious on the slippery ground.

The high altitude makes your breath come in shorter bursts, reminding you to pace yourself. When you finally crest Cho La Pass at 5,420 meters you will be rewarded with an amazing views of vast mountain range stretching out below you. After spending some time at the top, you will begin a careful descent toward Dzongla. You will arrive in this beautiful village by late afternoon. You can rest reflect on the day’s incredible journey feeling a sense of achievement for having crossed one of the toughest parts of the trek.

After the previous day’s tough climb over Cho La Pass you will find today’s trek manageable. You will start trekking with gentle descent to passing through wide open valleys surrounded by towering snowcapped peaks. The landscapes here are rocky and barren with occasional patches of grass and glacial streams winding through the valley.

As you walk you gradually merge back onto main EBC trail, joining other trekkers who are making their way toward the iconic destination. The final stretch to Lobuche is a steady incline, but the breathtaking mountain views keep you motivated. Upon arriving at the village you will settle into a cozy teahouse, resting up for the exciting journey ahead.

Today is one of the most anticipated days of the trek. Setting off early, you follow a rugged trail that winds along the edge of the Khumbu glacier. The path is rocky and uneven, requiring careful footing, but the sight of the towering peaks surrounding you makes every step worth it. After several hours of trekking, you finally arrive at Everest Base Camp.

You will see a legendry site where climbers prepare for their ascent of the highest peak in the world. Here you take time to soak in the atmosphere, capture photos, and appreciate the incredible journey that brought you to this point. The feeling of standing at the foot of Everest is surreal. After spending some time at the Base Camp, you retrace your steps back to GorakShep, where you will stay overnight.

Before dawn, you will begin the challenging ascent to Kalapathar, the highest point of your trek. The climb is steep and demanding, but as the sun rises, the golden light illuminates Everest and the surrounding peaks, creating an unforgettable panorama. Standing at 5,545 meters you get the best close-up views of Everest, Nuptse, and vast Khumbu Glacier below.

After taking in the spectacular scenery, you descend back to GorakShep, where helicopter awaits. The return flight to Kathmandu is thrilling experience, offering a bird’s eye view of Khumbu region. In less than hour you go from the remote high altitude wilderness to the bustling city i.e. a transition that feels almost surreal.

Weather in mountains is unpredictable, and flight schedules can sometimes be affected by wind or fog. This extra day provides flexibility in case of delays. If all goes as planned you can use this time to relax in Kathmandu and explore historical sites.

Your adventure comes to an end as you prepare to leave Nepal. depending on your plans, you may head to the airport or continue exploring other parts of the country. Whether its reflecting on your achievement over a quiet morning coffee or sharing stories with fellow trekkers, the memories of this incredible journey will stay with you for lifetime.