Everest Base Camp Trekking Via Cho_La pass

Detail itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and trip preparation – 1,300m/4,264 ft.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will receive a warm welcome from a representative of BG Travel and Trek. After completing the necessary customs formalities, such as obtaining your visa, you can collect your luggage and search for the BG Travel and Trek representative who will then transfer you to your hotel. In the evening, a welcome dinner will be organized by BG Travel and Trek, providing you with the opportunity to enjoy excellent Nepalese cuisine and immerse yourself in the country’s food culture.

Day 02: Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation.
After breakfast today, we embark on a guided tour to explore several of Kathmandu’s most historical and spiritual attractions. Some of these landmarks hold World Heritage Site status, including the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupati Nath, the renowned ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambhunath), and the Buddhist shrine (BouddhaNath), one of the largest stupas globally. Around noon, a pre-trip discussion is scheduled where we can meet our trek leader and other team members. During this session, BG Travel provides a comprehensive briefing about our trek, addressing any questions we may have about our upcoming adventure. The day concludes with an overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 03: Kathmandu – Lukla – Phakding (2,652m/8,700ft): 3 – 4 hrs
After breakfast, we will be accompanied to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu airport for an early morning flight to Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft), serving as the gateway to our trek. The 40-minute flight provides breathtaking views of green and white mountains, culminating in a dramatic landing at Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla. This air route is renowned as one of the most beautiful in the world. Upon arrival, we meet our trekking crew and, after necessary packing and arrangements, begin our trek through the prosperous village of Lukla until we reach Phakding. To aid in acclimatization, we have a short hike today. However, for those interested, there is an option for a side trip to a nearby monastery. We spend the night in Phakding.

Day 04: Phakding – Namche Bazaar (3440 m/11,280 ft): 5 – 6 hrs

After breakfast, we trek through a beautiful pine forest, following the track along the Dudh Koshi River and crossing several suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. Along the way, we enjoy a wonderful view of the glistening Mt. Thamserku (6618 m). Passing through the settlements of Benkar, Chumoa, and Monjo, we arrive at the check post and entrance to Sagarmatha National Park. Continuing through the last village of Jorsale, we make our way to Namche Bazaar.

The trail ascends through forests and bridges until we reach the confluence of the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers. After a final steep ascent of about two hours, we catch the first sight of Mt. Everest peering over the Lhotse-Nuptse ridge. At this point, we stop at Chautara to admire the view. Another 1.5 hours of hiking brings us to Namche Bazaar, the gateway to Mt. Everest and the main trading center of the region. We spend the night in Namche Bazaar.

Day 05: Acclimatization Day – Namche Bazaar: 3,440m/11,284ft.

This is the designated ‘acclimatization’ day for the trek. Health experts recommend staying active and moving during rest days instead of being idle. Options for the day include taking a day hike to Thame, visiting Khunde, or relaxing and exploring Namche Bazaar itself. Namche Bazaar is the main center of the Everest (Khumbu) region, equipped with government offices, ATMs, Internet cafes, shops, restaurants, a bakery, and a vibrant market every Friday evening and Saturday.

To aid acclimatization, a few hundred vertical feet of trekking is advised. BG Travel’s guides can take you to the Tourist Visitor Center near the headquarters of Sagarmatha National Park, where you can learn about the first Everest ascenders, Sherpa culture, and the region’s plant and animal life. An interesting side trip to Khumjung is also on the agenda, with a climb to the famous airstrip at Syangboche. Above the airstrip is the Everest View Hotel, a Japanese initiative offering stunning views of the highest mountains on Earth. Khumjung valley, surrounded by snowy peaks like Kongde and Thamserku, hosts a renowned monastery that houses a yeti scalp. The visit also includes the Hillary School at the same site. After lunch and exploration in Khumjung, we walk back down to Namche Bazaar for an overnight stay.

Day 06 : Trek from Namche Bazaar to Dole (4, 110m) 5-6 hrs trek

We commence the day by climbing steeply out of Namche Bazaar to Kyangjuma Village, offering outstanding views of Thamserku, Kantenga, and Ama Dablam. The most strenuous ascent of the day is the climb to Mong La, a charming place perched on the spur of Mt. Khumbila. At the center of the settlement of Mong La stands an ancient historical Chorten. We pause at the top of Mong La to appreciate the grandstand views of surrounding snow-capped mountains and valleys while having lunch and allowing our bodies to rest.

The trail today is characterized by an abundance of plant and animal vegetation, including wildflowers and Rhododendrons. Spotting wildlife such as pheasants, mountain goats, and the elusive musk deer along the way is not uncommon. Passing through forests, waterfalls, and bridges, we reach Dole—a small settlement with a few teahouses. We rest for the night in Dole.

Day 07 : Trek from Dole to Machhermo (4410m) we reckon this takes about 5 hrs.
From Dole, the ascent is steady along the side of the valley, with small and thorny bushes gradually giving way to scrub juniper as the altitude increases. The trail passes numerous summer settlements, and as you ascend, you are treated to excellent views of Cho Oyu. Looking back down the valley, you can admire the peaks of Kantega and Thamserku. The scenery is truly breathtaking. You’ll spend the night at your lodge, surrounded by the beauty of the Himalayan landscape.

Day 08 : Trek from Machhermo to Gokyo (4, 800m) 4-5 hours trek

Today’s journey takes you to the enchanting lakes of Gokyo. Following a scenic trail, you first reach Pangkha and then descend slightly, tracing one of the melting-water rivers that flow down from the west side of the Ngozumpa Glacier. Climbing a steep rocky path alongside the glacier, you pass the first of the holy lakes. Continuing, you arrive at the second lake and cross the path leading across the glacier to Cho La (5420m), which is part of your route to Lobuche and Everest later in the trek. The third lake, known as Dudh Pokhari, is where the settlement of Gokyo is situated on its eastern shore.

As you walk alongside the lake, the magnificent scenery unfolds with the summits of Cho Oyu and Gyachung Kang reflected in its emerald green waters. The captivating view is sure to leave a lasting impression. You’ll spend the night at a lodge in Gokyo.

Day 09 : Second rest at Gokyo for acclimatization (4,800m) Explore the Gokyo valley.
On this day, you take a rest at Gokyo and engage in some excursions in and around the Gokyo valley. Gokyo serves as a trade center where Sherpa people run lodges to offer their best services to trekkers passing through the area. Positioned beside the Ngozumpa glacier, which is said to be the largest glacier in Nepal, Gokyo provides a serene setting. You also have the option to make a side trip to the Fifth Lake via the Fourth Lake, enhancing your exploration of the beautiful surroundings. The day concludes with an overnight stay at your lodge in Gokyo.

Day 10 :Hike to Gokyo RI (5,330m) & trek to Thaknak (4,750m.) 6-7 hours

The trek continues via Gokyo village, a journey that takes about four and a half hours. Gokyo Ri rises above the village on the northern edge of the lake. Leaving the camp just after first light, you follow a steep path up the hillside. As you ascend, the summits of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu gradually come into view. The view from the summit of Gokyo Ri is considered one of the finest in the Everest region—some even argue it is superior to that from Kala Patthar. After reaching the summit and enjoying the breathtaking panorama, you descend and have lunch.

Following lunch, it’s a short walk to the village of Thaknak, situated at the shore of the Ngozumpa Glacier. You spend the night at your lodge in Thaknak.

Day 11 : Trek from Thaknak to Cho-la Pass (5, 367m.) – Lobuche (4,950m.) 8-9 hours trek.

The day to cross Cho La Pass is a crucial point in this trek. It is considered the toughest day, requiring an early start (4-6 am) compared to other days on the trip. The pass itself is not technically difficult, but it is steep and involves a glacier traverse on the eastern side. Caution is necessary as the trail is vertical, and the rocks glazed by ice can make it slippery for trekkers.

The trail ascends through a ravine, and as you climb continuously from Phedi, the view becomes increasingly captivating. Trekking along the side of a frozen lake, you eventually reach the top of the pass adorned with prayer flags. Notable mountains visible from the trail and the pass include Kyajo Ri, Tengkangpoche, Numbur, and Kangchung. The pyramidal Ama Dablam presides over a range of mountains to the south, while Cholatse soars on the west, and Lobuche East and Baruntse rise sharply to the right. Passing through some crevasses, you eventually reach Dzongla—a beautiful place offering a complete view of Mt. Cholatse, Mt. Ama Dablam, Lobuche peak, and the village of Pheriche far below.

Depending on your condition and interests, you might choose to stay overnight at Dzongla or proceed to Lobuche for the night.

Day 12 : Trek to Gorakshep – Everest Base Camp (5,364m.) – Gorakshep (5,140m.) 6-7 hours trek.

While trekking to Everest Base Camp, the trail weaves its way through ice pinnacles and past the crevasses of the Khumbu Glacier. During the spring season, you may encounter expedition teams at the Everest Base Camp, although their numbers are usually fewer in the autumn season. After a brief lunch and rest in Gorakshep, you embark on the trail to Everest Base Camp, passing through the once-vast Gorakshep Lake. Continuing straight ahead, you come across the Indian army mountaineers’ memorials.

Upon reaching Everest Base Camp, you can’t help but appreciate the courage of Everest climbers who navigated the hazardous route through the Khumbu icefall. The mountaineers’ colorful tents stand out against the dull gray surroundings, especially during the spring. From base camp, you can view Nuptse, Khumbetse, and Pumori, although Everest itself is not visible from this point. Having achieved the ultimate objectives of the trip, on the return leg, you can opt for a higher route to get a spectacular view of the Khumbu icefall and numerous mountains. The day concludes with an overnight stay in Gorakshep.

Day 13 : Ascend to Kal