Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes
Includes easy glacier walking, a Himalayan pass, and two walk-up peaks up to 18,450 feet / 5624 meters
Journey into the famed and spectacular Khumbu Valley for the classic Mountain Madness Everest Base Camp Trek — but don’t stop there! With the Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp Trek, the adventure continues as you trek over Chola Pass and into the stunning Gokyo Valley. You’ll explore the source of the grand Dudh Koshi River, the sparkling lakes, and the 360 panoramic views from Gokyo Ri of the surrounding 8000 meter peaks- some say this view is even more spectacular than the view from Kala Pattar!
This challenging trek allows you to stay up at higher altitudes for an extended time and soak in the incredible views and experience a different perspective of the Everest region.This trip includes all of the same great highlights as our spring trek to base camp, such as the bustling Kathmandu and Namche Bazaar and Kala Pattar, but notches it up with the walk-up ascent of Gokyo Ri, which offers face-to-face views of Cho Oyu and other stunning views of the nearby peaks.
Get off the beaten path!
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Trip Perks
For trekkers going to Everest Base Camp, reaching the top of Kala Pattar is often the highlight of the trip, its views simply amazing. But, this view becomes a distant memory all too fast as they walk out and return to Kathmandu. It doesn’t stop there with the Gokyo trek though — you get the views from Chola Pass and then the icing on the cake, Gokyo Ri, with views of Everest, Cho Oyu, and so much more. On top of that, you get a different route back to Namche Bazaar.
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Description
This trek follows our Everest Base Camp trek itinerary all the way to base camp and then breaks off the path at Lobuche to begin the route over Chola Pass and to Gokyo Lakes. As with the base camp trek, the adventure starts with a full day tour of Kathmandu’s famous Hindu temples and Buddhist stupas. With seven United Nations World Heritage Sites in the valley, you can step back in time to the Golden Age of Nepal’s art and architectural history, as well as see the richness of its modern daily life.
After exploring Kathmandu, you’ll fly into the remote mountain town of Lukla and begin your trek, following an ancient Sherpa trade route to the area’s famous Namche Bazaar. Beyond it, you will find traditional villages, rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and summer pastures for yak grazing, before moving into the stark landscape of glaciers and ice.
Our route will enable you to visit monasteries in the heart of Sherpa country, where you can observe the monks in their daily prayers. You’ll also hike out onto the Khumbu glacier to visit the iconic Everest Base Camp, where climbers, following the steps of Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, prepare for their summit attempts. You’ll stand at the foot of the Khumbu Icefall, where modern day climbers begin their own odyssey, and you then take in the incredible views from Kala Pattar before trekking down valley to the village of Lobuche, where the Gokyo portion of the trip begins.
The route over the pass and over to the lakes is more challenging than the base camp trail. Some rocky trail, an easy glacier crossing and some travel over the rock covered glacier before the lakes keeps things interesting and adds to the more remote feel of the trek. But, the creature comforts provided by teahouses are found along this route too, so you’re hard work is more than rewarded with a warm place to sleep and good food.
From the lakes and back to Namche the trail has the usual ups and downs of the Himalayas, but the scenery is spectacular and gives yet another new perspective. Once back in the now familiar Namche Bazaar, the final day back to Lukla and the flight to Kathmandu, you’ll feel a satisfaction that only a trek in the Himalayas can provide. You then return to Kathmandu for a day of shopping, rest, or walking the Old Quarter before a farewell evening celebration with a delicious multi-course meal of Nepal’s finest cuisine.
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UNESCO Sites to Discover
United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization Sites:
Kathmandu Valley
When you’re back home, you’ll think about this trip in so many more ways than just the spectacular peaks you experienced. Take today, for example. You’ve just seen Kathmandu’s Durbar Square, a World Heritage site with an astonishing 50+ temples, shrines, and palaces — and the home of the Kumari, Kathmandu’s very own living goddess. Now, you’re poised at the brink of a time tunnel. From Durbar Square, a walk in any direction will plunge you into a tangle of alleyways that will take you back to Kathmandu’s medieval roots, with tiny, hole-in-the-wall shops, timeless crafts, and the pervading smell of incense and spices.
Next, you can take in another of the seven World Heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley: Swayambhunath, an iconic 5th century Buddhist temple that overlooks the city. After a 365-stair climb (hello, acclimatization!) and many, many monkeys (its nickname is the Monkey Temple), you’ll reach the sacred stupa, with its white dome, gilded spire, and the all-seeing eyes of the Buddha. Some of our clients also elect to visit Nepal’s oldest and holiest Hindu shrine, Pashupatinath Temple, which draws worshippers from across the Indian subcontinent, along with an assortment of painted sadhus (Hindu ascetics).
Later, while you’re considering your next adventure in culture-rich Kathmandu, nothing refreshes like some delicious Nepali cuisine (hello, momos!), washed down with locally-brewed beer!
Sagarmatha National Park
It’s dawn and a beehive’s strong, rhythmic droning has woken you up — no, wait… It’s horns, played in unison, and punctuated by the occasional crash of a cymbals. The sound is winding its way to you from a nearby monastery, where Buddhist monks are greeting the day with morning prayers. You are not in Kansas anymore. You are in Namche Bazaar, and today is a very special day: The day you’ll see Mount Everest for the first time!
Home of the world’s highest peak and encompassing the majestic Great Himalayan Range, Sagarmatha National Park has it all — dramatic mountains, glaciers, deep ravines, and rare species, including the snow leopard and the red panda. Balancing all this grandeur are the friendly Sherpa people, 6,000 of whom make the park their home, as Sherpas have for the last four centuries. Their cultural and religious traditions include a reverence for all living beings and a restriction of animal hunting, practices that have helped to conserve the park. As you journey through the park, you’ll understand why UNESCO listed it as a World Heritage Site.
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Gokyo frequently asked questions
Can I rent gear through Mountain Madness? Will someone check my gear?
Mountain Madness doesn’t have rental gear in Nepal. There are some gear shops in Kathmandu but they are often out of popular sizes and very hit or miss in making reservations. Therefore, it is important that the equipment guidelines are followed and all required gear is brought with you. We will do a gear check in Kathmandu to make sure you have everything and that it is packed correctly.
How heavy will my pack be?
Your Everest Base Camp Trek will be a fully supported trek with porters and pack animals. You will be carrying a daypack on trekking days, which contains snacks, camera, water and extra clothing and weighs between 15 – 20 lbs.
Is it possible for me to store clothing I will not need on the trek?
Yes, if you have a small bag of extra clothing, you will be able to store it safely in Kathmandu for the duration of the trek.
Do I need crampons for the passes?
No, however micro-spikes, which can be attached to your trekking shoes will help depending on the conditions. But, the terrain is not difficult and the micro-spikes are for traction and not used for climbing.
What is the average temperature during the trek to Everest Base Camp?
The trips get progressively warmer from March through May. Day time temperatures can be in the 50s or 60s F (10 to 20 C) when the weather is calm and clear. Night time temperatures at the higher elevations may be below freezing, especially if the weather is windy. You might expect a little bit of snow at the higher elevations and temperatures in the 20s (around 0 C). Temperatures during the fall season are a bit colder and you may see more snow near the trail.
What kind of lodging can I expect?
Your hotel in Kathmandu is the 5‑star Yak & Yeti. This hotel offers luxurious accommodations, cafes with regional and continental meals and an outstanding breakfast buffet. While on the trek, you will stay in traditional Nepali teahouses, hand-picked based on their cleanliness, facilities, and comfort. Guest rooms have good mattresses, clean sheets, locking doors, and western style bathrooms including flush toilets and hot showers. The teahouses feature private sleeping arrangements with two ‑four people in a room. For the spring trekkers who stay at the base camp for a night, you will stay in tents there.
Can I request single accommodations?
All accommodations are based on double or triple occupancy. If you are traveling solo and wish to share accommodations, we will pair you with another traveler. Singles are available in Kathmandu, but more difficult to secure in teahouses. If you prefer single accommodations in teahouses, we will do our best to arrange it, however, there are some situations where it may not be possible. If you request single accommodations, you will be responsible for paying the single supplement fee.
Can Mountain Madness customize trips?
Mountain Madness loves to customize personal trips for you, your friends, or organization. Our published land costs are typically based on 5 – 10 individuals, so the number in your party may affect your land costs. Just give us a call and let us know what you’re interested in, and we’ll do our best to Make It Happen!
I’d like to travel with my younger son or daughter. Is there a minimum age requirement?
No, however, we’d like to talk with you about the trip you are interested in and whether it’s right for someone under age 18.
Who will be picking me up and where?
A Mountain Madness guide or representative will pick you up at the airport on the scheduled arrival date. We can help you arrange accommodations if you arrive earlier, and are happy to make suggestions for transportation, restaurants and sightseeing.
What if want to arrive earlier or depart later than the scheduled trip dates?
Mountain Madness is glad to help you arrange accommodations before and after your trip and can recommend side excursions and restaurants for the extra time.
Should I tip my guides?
Tipping is always a personal choice, but is greatly appreciated by your guides. Check your departure packet for details. If you decide to tip your American guide (and want to avoid carrying extra cash), you might consider bringing a blank check that can be made out to your guide.
What kind of food will we be eating? Can you accommodate a vegetarian or vegan diet?
All of the meals served at teahouses are a combination of the local and regional fares along with some Western-style meals. There are vegetarian options available at the teahouses. If you are vegan, you will need to bring some supplemental food along to accommodate your needs. Please call our office if you have further questions about this.
What if someone on my trip feels sick or wants to stop?
During a trek, if someone becomes ill or feels that they do not wish to go any farther, the guides decide whether the person requires an escort to descend (with local staff or assistant guide) or if he or she can stay put until the group returns.
How soon should I reserve my place? How quickly to the trips fill up?
There is no way to know how quickly our trips are going to fill up. Many of our trips fill up months in advance. So send in your application and a deposit as soon as you have decided which trip date you want.
Do I need to purchase travel or evacuation insurance?
Mountain Madness highly recommends the purchasing of trip cancellation, travel insurance and medical evacuation policies. Once we have received your application and have confirmed your spot on a trip, we will send you information about the various types of insurance and insurance companies we recommend.
Have a Question? Contact Us!
Price
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Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp
$5,800 – 23 Days / Includes travel time
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Price Includes
- Guide(s) and staff
- Park fees
- Roundtrip airfare from Kathmandu to Lukla
- Kathmandu city tour
- Four scheduled hotel nights in Kathmandu (double occupancy)
- Scheduled restaurant meals in Kathmandu
- All teahouse accommodations and food while on the trek
- All support staff including cooking staff, porters and pack animals
- Ground transportation and airport transfers
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Price Does Not Include
- International airfare
- Nepal entry visa and airport fees
- Personal equipment and clothing
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, etc.)
- Personal porter
- Breakfast and lunch Day 3
- Lunch Day 21
- Dinner Day 4 & 20
- Alcoholic and bottled beverages
- Travel insurance with trip cancellation, medical and evacuation policy
- All expenses associated with non-scheduled departure
- Guide/Staff gratuities
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Payment Schedule
- $700 deposit at time of registration, which includes a $300 non-refundable registration fee
- Balance due 120 days prior to departure
- The balance may be paid by check, wire transfer, ACH or credit card with a 3% convenience fee
Dates
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Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp 2024
- Apr 6, 2024 — Apr 28, 2024
- Apr 27, 2024 — May 19, 2024
- Oct 12, 2024 — Nov 3, 2024
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Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp 2025 (Price subject to change)
- Apr 5, 2025 — Apr 27, 2025
- Apr 26, 2025 — May 18, 2025
- Oct 11, 2025 — Nov 2, 2025
Custom Dates Available — Contact Us
Policies
Cancellation / Refund Policy
- MMI strongly recommends trip cancellation/interruption and evacuation insurance for all trips. Our insurance partner, Ripcord, offers comprehensive travel insurance including trip cancellation, as well as rescue/evacuation policies and can assist in answering any questions. In addition, Participant is expected to have sufficient medical insurance as prescribed by their country of origin. Participant understands that MMI does not include any type of insurance with the cost of the trip.
- If you decide to cancel your trip or change your itinerary, MMI must be notified in writing. Your trip will be cancelled from the date written notice is received. If proper written cancellation notice is not received, amounts paid and reservations made will be forfeited.
- Non-refundable fees may apply for certain trips in order to secure permits and other services. MMI must strictly adhere to cancellation policies outside MMI’s control.
- Due to the personalized service we offer on our trips, MMI reserves the right to waive any fees. We will attempt to accommodate changes and cancellations, waiving certain fees when feasible.
- Circumstances outside the control of MMI and its partners, may require amended cancellation/refund policies. Such circumstances may include, but are not limited to COVID-19, natural disasters, wildfires, terrorism and so forth.
International Trips/Courses:
- Full refund, less the non-refundable registration fee, will be provided 121 days or more before the departure date
- No refunds will be provided 120 days or less before the departure date
Trip Insurance
We strongly recommend the purchase of travel cancellation insurance to protect you from the unexpected. You aren’t likely to think of it now, but people do get ill, break a bone, have a family emergency or get assigned to a last-minute business trip. If you are in remote areas, please note that emergency rescue & evacuation can be very expensive.
We also strongly urge you to consider rescue and evacuation insurance if your own policy does not provide the coverage needed. Services available may include, but are not limited to, helicopter evacuation, medical care, etc.
If you choose not to purchase insurance, you assume full responsibility for any expenses incurred in the event of a medical emergency and/or evacuation, as well as for trip cancellation, interruption, lost luggage, etc. We are not the experts and therefore ask that you please consult our travel insurance partner directly with any specific questions.
To protect against losses due to illness, accident, or other unforeseen circumstances, Mountain Madness strongly recommends the purchase of travel insurance as soon as possible after making a deposit. Mountain Madness has partnered with Redpoint Resolutions as our preferred travel insurance provider. Redpoint’s Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ is designed for adventurers.
For a quote, or to purchase travel insurance, please click this link Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ or call +1 – 415-481‑0600. Pricing varies based on age, trip cost, trip length, and level of coverage.
Critical benefits of Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance include:
- A completely integrated program with a single point of contact for emergency services, travel assistance, and insurance claims
- Evacuation and rescue services from your point of injury or illness to your hospital of choice
- Comprehensive travel insurance for trip cancellation/interruption, primary medical expense coverage, baggage loss or delay, emergency accident and emergency sickness medical expense, emergency dental, accidental death and dismemberment, and more
- Optional security evacuation coverage in case of an unplanned natural disaster or other security events
- Waiver for pre-existing conditions (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
- Optional “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
Itinerary
Flight Information
The total number of days for your trip includes all travel to and from your destination, with some exceptions. Dates listed on the website start with your departure date from the U.S. and include the day you arrive home. For this trip you will need to arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal on Day 3 of the itinerary. You will cross the date line in mid-flight to Asia, thus losing a day. If you are traveling from outside the U.S. your itinerary may require less time to reach Kathmandu, so all that is required is that you arrive on Day 3 of the itinerary, where Mountain Madness services begin. If you arrive early, we can assist with extra hotel arrangements and activities. Otherwise, you can arrive at any time on Day 3. You will be met at the airport by a Mountain Madness representative and transferred to your hotel.
Your return flight home should be scheduled for the second to last day of the itinerary.
Please contact our office for any help needed with your flight schedule.
Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp Day by Day
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Day 1-2
Travel
Travel to Nepal takes several days coming from the US In order to provide you with the exact number of days needed for this excursion, we have included travel time in the itinerary. You will depart from the US on Day 1 and, by crossing the international date line, arrive in Kathmandu on Day 3, where Mountain Madness services begin. If you are travelling from somewhere other than the US, travel time may vary, however Mountain Madness services still begin on Day 3.
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Day 3
Kathmandu
Elevation: 4,383 ft / 1336 m
Arrive in Kathmandu on Day 3, where a Mountain Madness guide meets you. We stay at the famous 5‑Star Yak-n-Yeti Hotel. Great food from all over the world, fabulous shopping, and Durbar Square with its numerous temples and markets are nearby.
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Day 4
Kathmandu
Elevation: 4,383 ft / 1336 m
While we wrap up last minute paperwork with the Nepali government, we arrange for you to enjoy a city tour visiting the palaces, Durbar Square, Hindu temples and shrines, Buddhist stupas — or you can just relax at the hotel. A favorite destination is the Monkey Temple, a Buddhist temple situated on a small hill that offers panoramic views of the city. Or you can join the thousands of Hindus who venture to the Pashupatinath temple, one of the most famous Hindu temples in Nepal and the most famous Shiva temple in Asia.
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Day 5
Fly to Lukla / Trek to Phakding
Elevation: 8,563 ft / 2610 m
We fly on a twin-engine Otter to the Himalayan foothills where we begin our trek into the Khumbu region. The sights from the plane are amazing, providing dramatic views of terraced hills and the distant Himalayan giants. After landing in the village of Lukla (9,350 feet), we meet the rest of our staff and porters and trek for about two and a half hours to Phakding.
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Day 6
Trek to Namche Bazaar
Elevation: 11,286 ft / 3440 m
We continue trekking along the banks of the Dudh Kosi, crossing this majestic river many times on exciting suspension bridges laden with prayer flags. After entering Sagarmatha National Park, the trail climbs steeply with breathtaking views to Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Khumbu region.
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Day 7
Rest Day in Namche Bazaar
Elevation: 11,286 ft / 3440 m
Today is a rest and acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar. Namche is a colorful village with many wonderful and interesting shops and vendors, fabulous food, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. An early hike above town, before the clouds move in, reward climbers with a spectacular Himalayan sunrise and views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse (the 4th highest peak in the world), and the beautiful Ama Dablam. On the way down, we can visit the Sherpa Museum that houses an exhibit on traditional Sherpa lifestyle and a fabulous photography display by a local Nepalese naturalist. One room highlights the Sherpa traditions and in another, Sherpa high altitude climbers are presented.
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Day 8
Tyangboche
Elevation: 12,664 ft / 3860 m
The trek continues along the rushing glacial waters of the Dudh Kosi with magnificent views of the mountains. We spend the night next to the Thyangboche monastery, the spiritual center of the Khumbu region. Inside the monastery are incredibly ornate wall hangings, a 20-foot sculpture of Buddha, and the musical instruments and robes of the Lamas. With luck, our group will see the Lama perform a ceremony and hear the mystical chanting and music.
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Day 9
Dingboche
Elevation: 14,469 ft / 4410 m
From Thyangboche, the trail drops to Debuche, crosses another exciting suspension bridge on the Imja Khola, and climbs to Pangboche among thousands of mani stones. Our uphill trek continues, taking us to the quaint traditional Sherpa village of Dingboche with its exquisite views of Lhotse, Island Peak, and Ama Dablam.
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Day 10
Dingboche
Rest day in Dingboche
Elevation: 14,469 ft / 4410 m
Today we take another rest and acclimatization day. There is the option of taking a light hike up the valley for a wider variety of photos of the valley and mountains of the Khumbu region.
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Day 11
Lobuche
Elevation: 16,109 ft / 4910 m
Today’s trail continues along the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier and passes by stone memorials for climbers who have perished on nearby summits.
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Day 12
Gorak Shep / Kala Pattar
Elevation: 17,000 ft / 5182 m
After an early morning start, we ascend Kala Pattar (18,450 feet / 5624 m) and enjoy famous views of the Himalayas, without having to climb Everest! That evening we camp beneath Kala Pattar at Gorak Shep.
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Day 13
Everest Base Camp / Back to Lobuche
Elevation: 17,575 ft / 5357 m
In the event of bad weather, we have the opportunity for a second chance to climb Kala Pattar. Today we will also continue our trek to Everest Base Camp, located at the foot of the Khumbu Icefall. We’ll spend the day at Everest base camp before returning to Lobuche for the night.
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Day 14
Dzonglha
Elevation: 15,945 ft / 4860 m
From Lobuche our trail deviates from the ascent as we head towards Gokyo. Our first stop will be in the small village of Dzonglha.
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Day 15
Thangnak
Elevation: 15,420 ft / 4700 m
Today we hike through pine forests on our way to Cho La Pass. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains of Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Mount Everest. A steep descent takes us into Thangnak for the evening.
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Day 16
Gokyo Lake
Trek to Gokyo Lake
Elevation: 15,584 ft / 4750 m
The day’s trek takes us to the magnificent Gokyo Lakes where 5 brilliant lakes dot the landscape. Time permitting, we may be able to take short hikes to visit the various lakes.
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Day 17
Gokyo Ri
Elevation: 17,575 ft / 5357 m
This morning, we depart early for our hike up to Gokyo Ri, a highlight of the trip that rivals Everest Base Camp. The climb up to the top of Gokyo Ri is strenuous and takes about 3 – 4 hours to reach the top. Once on the summit, the views of the Gokyo village, Gokyo Lakes, cholatse and Nogzumpa Glacier are unbelievable. On all sides, we are surrounded by the Himalayan 8000 meter peaks. Definitely an unforgettable sight! That afternoon, we hike down to Macchermo (14,665 feet / 4470 meters). On the way, we pass the thundering Dudh Koshi River and the steep river valley with the sheer canyon sides. This is the region where the Khumbu people had their first Yeti sighting in 1974!
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Day 18
Namche Bazaar
Elevation: 11,286 ft / 3440 m
Today we trek back to Namche Bazaar. Shortly before reaching Namche, the trek takes us through a pine forest, where musk deer often graze in the early morning. Arriving in town, we may see lowland porters, highland Sherpas, and Tibetan people trading food and supplies during Namche’s market time.
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Day 19
Hike down to Lukla
Elevation: 9,383 ft / 2860 m
Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla where we spend the night at the Khumbu Lodge. Hot showers are available.
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Day 20
Fly back to Kathmandu
Elevation: 4,383 ft / 1336 m
If the weather is clear, the morning flight back to Kathmandu will be a scenic and smooth farewell to the mountains.
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Day 21
Rest day in Kathmandu
Elevation: 4,383 ft / 1336 m
In the morning, we can watch Kathmandu rise in prayer along the banks of the holy river Bagmati at Pashupatinath, with burning ghats similar to the Ganges in India. Or we can visit the Buddhist temple of Swayambhunath and explore the temples in the city of Patan. Final celebration dinner!
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Day 22-23
Depart Kathmandu and fly home. Arrive home on Day 23.
Note on Itinerary: Although we do our very best to follow the schedule listed, this itinerary is subject to change due to inclement weather, unsafe route conditions, or other reasons beyond our control and in the guide’s best judgement.
Equipment for Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes
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Carrying Gear
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Day pack (30-45L)
With padded shoulder straps and waist belt; used for carrying personal gear such as water bottle, extra clothing, snacks, camera, etc. Individual loads will be between 10 and 20 pounds. A pack with a volume between 1800-2500 cu. in. (30-45 liters) serves most people’s needs well
Examples:
Osprey Stratos
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Pack cover
Waterproof cover
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Large duffel bag (100L capacity)
Your mountain gear will be kept in it and the entire duffel will go into the group mountain bag that will be carried by the porters. Limit loads to items on the equipment list. Your large duffel cannot exceed 20 kgs (44lbs) Approximate size: 28”x16”x16” No wheels or hard sides, please
Examples:
Patagonia Black Hole
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Small duffel bag
Large enough to hold everything you’re not taking on the mountain. Will be stored at hotel, to be used after trip
Examples:
Patagonia Black Hole
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Small padlock for duffel bags
Extra security
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Baggage tags
Makes identifying your bags easy at airports or hotels
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Sleeping Gear
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Expedition quality sleeping bag (0F)
Zero-degree F (Minus eighteen-degree C) sleeping bag and stuff sack. Night-time temperatures can be as low as 0°F (-18°C) so bring a warm enough bag
Examples:
Marmot Never Summer, Feathered Friends Snow Bunting
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Head and Face
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Fleece or wool hat
It must cover the ears
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Shade hat or baseball cap
A visor hat with a good brim is essential for protection from the sun
Examples:
Mountain Madness trucker hat
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Bandanas or neck gaiter
Various uses, i.e. cleaning glasses, sun protection when tied around the neck, etc. We have our own Mountain Madness neck gaiter available for purchase!
Examples:
Mountain Madness neck gaiter
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Balaclava or Buff
A thin balaclava will add significant warmth on that cold summit day
Examples:
Outdoor Research, Marmot
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Sunglasses or Glacier glasses (w/hard case)
Essential eye protection whether in the tropics, at high altitudes or by the water. Sun glare off the snow can be intense so polarized 100% UVA/UVB glasses work best. Consider bringing a spare pair
Examples:
Julbo
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Hands
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Fleece gloves
Lightweight gloves to use while trekking and hanging around camp
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Climbing gloves
A shell system of a fleece liner and waterproof shell that handles cold
Examples:
Outdoor Research Arete
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Feet
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Thin socks (2 pair)
Two pairs of synthetic or wool socks to wear under heavy wool socks to help prevent blisters and keep feet dry
Examples:
Smartwool or Cool Max
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Thick socks (3 pair)
Three pairs of synthetic or wool socks, medium to heavyweight. Check boot fit with thin and thick socks on
Examples:
Smartwool or Thorlo
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Gaiters
One pair of gaiters made of breathable material; keeps dirt and snow out of boots. Make sure they fit over your boots
Examples:
Outdoor Research Verglas or Crocodiles
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Hiking boots
One pair medium-weight hiking/backpacking boots, waterproof, large enough to be comfortable with one thin and one thick sock
Examples:
Salomon Quest 4D
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Tennis shoes or sandals
Lightweight to wear in camp after a long day of hiking
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Upper Body
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Synthetic t-shirts
Two synthetic or merino wool t-shirts. No cotton!
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Long-sleeved Base Layer
Two lightweight to mediumweight, pull-over is best
Examples:
Patagonia Capilene
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Sports bras
Two, synthetic, no cotton!
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Softshell Jacket w/ hood
This is what you will be wearing while hiking at higher altitudes or while kicking around camps at lower altitude. This jacket should be full-zip
Examples:
Outdoor Research Ferrosi
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Hardshell jacket w/ hood
A good jacket made of Gore-Tex (recommended) or waterproof nylon, roomy enough to fit over multiple layers
Examples:
Outdoor Research Foray, Patagonia Triolet
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Down or synthetic jacket w/hood
This is your most important piece of warm gear and will mean the difference between an enjoyable climb or a miserable one. A warm, full zip jacket with hood is ideal.
Examples:
Helly Hansen Vanir, Feathered Friends Volant, Marmot Guide’s Down Hoody, Outdoor Research Virtuoso Hoody
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Sun hoody
This piece with a high SPF rating and lightweight fabric offers protection from high altitude sun
Examples:
Outdoor Research
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Lower Body
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Undergarments
Adequate supply for the entire trip
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Bathing suit (optional)
lightweight and packable
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Hiking shorts
One pair of quick-drying shorts. Good for hiking at lower elevations on the mountain
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Long base layer
Two pairs light or mediumweight
Examples:
Patagonia Capilene
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Softshell pants
Softshell pants are water resistant, yet highly breathable and durable. Great for colder conditions over a pair of long underwear or tights higher on the mountain or summit day
Examples:
Outdoor Research Voodoo, Mountain Hardwear Touren, Patagonia Guide
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Hardshell pants
waterproof and breathable with side zips (minimum of ¾ zips recommended) Gore-Tex or equivalent
Examples:
Outdoor Research Furio, Arcteryx Beta AR
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Miscellaneous
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Stuff sacks/ditty bags/plastic bags
To organize gear in your duffle and pack. All clothing should be kept dry using waterproof stuff sacks or large heavyweight plastic bags (trash compactor bags work great)
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Toiletries
Toothbrush and paste, comb, tampons, biodegradable soap (small amount), etc. Bring enough for the entire trip
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Toilet paper
1 – 2 rolls stored in a plastic bag
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Sunscreen
Bring plenty of sun block with SPF of 40 or more. It's easy to underestimate the amount necessary for your trip!
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Lip balm
Must have SPF rating of 20 or more. Bring two just in case!
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Ear plugs
To block out snoring and other noise to ensure a good night's sleep
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Water Bottles/Water System (Trekking)
Two one-liter, wide-mouthed plastic bottles. If you use a collapsible water bottle or hydration system you are welcome to bring it along for drinking water. However, bring at least one hard plastic bottle.
Examples:
Nalgene
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Water purification
Steri Pen, Potable Aqua, Polar Pure crystal iodine. Purifies drinking water while on the trip.
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Water flavoring
Powdered additives like Gatorade or NUUN are a nice change of pace to water and help replenish much needed electrolytes.
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Headlamp
Bring extra batteries!
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Pocket knife or multitool
Simple Swiss Army type with scissors. Make sure you transport in checked bag, not carry-on!
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Personal first aid and drug kit
small personal first aid kit with ample bandaids and moleskin
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Nausea medications
Pepto Bismol tablets; Maalox, Gelusil M or Mylanta antacid tablets. Donnatal for stomach cramps. Probiotic capsules taken daily may help keep your gastro-intestinal system working smoothly
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Towel
For wash up in camp
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Handi-Wipes
A small pack or two anti-bacterial are great for general hygiene
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Spare contacts and glasses
Contacts can be a problem in dusty conditions, so make sure you have your back-up glasses with you. Glasses wearers should have a spare set
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Poncho
A poncho is great for lower down on the mountain when it is raining. Rather than having to wear your hard-shell jacket and overheat, just throw the poncho over yourself and your pack and you will stay dry as a bone
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Umbrella (optional)
Protection from rain and sun; compact and light weight
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Snacks (trek)
Trail snacks are important. Bring some power/energy/candy bars or if there is something else you particularly like to eat while hiking. You will be fed well throughout the trek, so this is just something extra
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Spare bottle for a pee bottle, and a pee funnel (Lady J or Freshette) for women
It can be a cold walk to the toilet at night
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Insect repellent
A must!
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Personal electronics
Phone with camera, and/or separate camera. Bring extra batteries and memory!
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Electronics charging
If you want to charge your electronics along the way, a small, lightweight solar panel to charge batteries or portable charging device may be a good addition
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Travel power adapter
Most come in kits with all the plugs you need. Double-check to make sure you’re taking the correct adapter/plugs
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Travel clothing
Comfortable clothing for travel before and after the expedition
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Book Trip
Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp
$5,800
23 Days / Includes travel time
Elevation
Kala Pattar: 18,450 ft / 5624 m
Gokyo Ri: 17,575 ft / 5357 m
Route
Everest Base Camp- Cho La Pass-Gokyo
Difficulty
Advanced
Similar to level four, but there may be four difficult days in a row over passes and could have elevation gains of more than 3,000 feet / 915 meters. Given multiple difficult days on this level of trek endurance is key and preparation should be more rigorous.
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