| No of people | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 - 1 | $1,900 |
| 2 - 4 | $1,750 |
| 5 - 9 | $1,735 |
| 10 - 15 | $1,720 |
| 16 - 20 | $1,700 |
Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly greeted by a representative from Himalayan Discovery Trek. You will be transferred to your hotel in the vibrant Thamel area, where you can unwind after your journey. Take some time to explore the local surroundings, enjoy a meal at a nearby restaurant, and prepare for the exciting adventure ahead. In the evening, a briefing about the trek will be held, giving you an overview of what to expect.
Today, immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Kathmandu. Your guided tour will take you to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the majestic Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) and the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square. After lunch, visit the sacred Boudhanath Stupa, a center of Tibetan Buddhism. In the late afternoon, return to your hotel for final trek preparations, including checking gear and discussing the itinerary with your guide. Enjoy a relaxing evening, and rest well for your early morning flight.
After an early breakfast, you’ll take a thrilling 30-minute flight to Lukla, a gateway to the Everest region. Upon arrival, meet your trekking crew and start your journey towards Phakding. The trek follows the Dudh Koshi River, weaving through picturesque landscapes and charming Sherpa villages. After approximately three hours, you will reach Phakding, where you can rest and take in the serene surroundings. Enjoy dinner and relax at your lodge.
Today, you’ll trek from Phakding to Namche Bazar, a vibrant Sherpa town. The trail features several suspension bridges and climbs steeply through pine forests, offering stunning views of the mountains. As you approach Namche, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking vistas of Everest and neighboring peaks. After about five to six hours of trekking, check into your lodge in Namche and take some time to acclimatize. Explore the local market or visit the Sherpa Museum before dinner.
Today is dedicated to acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust to the altitude. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and consider a hike to the Everest View Hotel, where you can take in spectacular panoramic views of Mount Everest and other majestic peaks. Alternatively, explore the nearby villages of Khunde and Khumjung, rich in Sherpa culture. Spend the afternoon relaxing and preparing for the next stages of your trek, enjoying a hearty dinner in the lodge.
After breakfast, you’ll depart Namche and trek towards Phortse Thanga or Dole. The trail offers incredible views of the surrounding peaks, and you may encounter wildlife such as Himalayan pheasants. The trek takes around five to six hours, leading you through beautiful alpine meadows and scenic landscapes. Upon arrival at your destination, settle into your lodge and enjoy a peaceful evening amidst nature.
Today’s trek takes you from Phortse Thanga to Machhermo, a small settlement known for its stunning views. The trail gradually ascends through rhododendron forests and grassy slopes, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. After approximately four to five hours of trekking, you will reach Machhermo. Take some time to acclimatize and explore the area, perhaps visiting the local Buddhist monastery. Enjoy a cozy dinner at your lodge.
After breakfast, continue your trek towards Gokyo, situated beside the beautiful Gokyo Lakes. The trail leads you through rocky terrain and offers impressive views of the surrounding mountains, including Cho Oyu. After about four to five hours, you’ll arrive in Gokyo, where you can relax by the pristine lakes and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Check into your lodge and soak in the beauty of your surroundings.
Today is dedicated to exploring Gokyo and its stunning surroundings. You can hike up to Gokyo Ri (5,357m) for an unforgettable sunrise view over the Himalayas, including Everest and Makalu. Alternatively, spend time exploring the beautiful Gokyo Lakes, known for their vivid turquoise colors. This day allows for acclimatization and appreciation of the breathtaking landscapes. In the evening, gather with fellow trekkers to share stories of your adventures.
After breakfast, begin your trek to Thagnak. The trail takes you past several stunning glacial lakes as you continue your journey through the Khumbu region. Enjoy the impressive views of the Ngozumpa Glacier along the way. After approximately three to four hours of trekking, you will reach Thagnak, where you can settle into your lodge and relax, preparing for the challenging days ahead.
Today, you’ll trek from Thagnak to Dzongla, navigating through rugged terrain and crossing the Chola Pass. The hike will take around five to six hours, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Upon arrival in Dzongla, enjoy the serene atmosphere and majestic mountain vistas. Check into your lodge and spend the evening relaxing, taking in the beauty of this remote location.
After breakfast, depart Dzongla and trek towards Lobuche, following the trail that leads you through alpine meadows and rocky landscapes. The journey takes around three to four hours, with breathtaking views of the Khumbu glacier and nearby peaks. Upon reaching Lobuche, check into your lodge and take some time to rest and acclimatize. In the evening, enjoy a warm meal with your trekking team, preparing for the next day’s adventure.
Today is a highlight of your trek as you make your way to Everest Base Camp. After an early breakfast, trek to Gorakshep, where you will drop off your bags before continuing to Base Camp. The trail offers awe-inspiring views of the Khumbu Icefall and towering peaks. After reaching Everest Base Camp, take time to celebrate this incredible achievement and soak in the atmosphere. Return to Gorakshep for an overnight stay, where you can reflect on your journey over a hearty dinner.
Awake early for a pre-dawn hike to Kalapathar, known for its breathtaking sunrise views over Mount Everest. The climb takes about an hour and rewards you with stunning vistas. After taking in the views and capturing memories, descend back to Gorakshep for breakfast, then begin your trek down to Pangboche. The trail leads through lush forests and charming Sherpa villages, taking around six to seven hours. Arrive in Pangboche, check into your lodge, and enjoy a well-deserved dinner.
Today’s trek takes you from Pangboche to Namche Bazar, with a detour to Khumjung village. Visit the famous Khumjung monastery and enjoy views of the surrounding peaks. The trail takes approximately six to seven hours, allowing for plenty of opportunities to take in the scenery and capture photos. Upon reaching Namche Bazar, settle into your lodge for the night and celebrate your trek with fellow adventurers over a final dinner together.
On your last day of trekking, you’ll descend from Namche Bazar to Lukla. The trail is well-trodden, and the descent takes about six hours. Enjoy the scenic views as you pass through pine forests and cross suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River. Upon reaching Lukla, check into your lodge and take time to relax after your incredible journey. Celebrate your achievements with your trekking crew and reflect on the memories made along the way.
After breakfast, you’ll catch your return flight to Kathmandu, where you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Spend the day at leisure, allowing you to relax, shop for souvenirs, or explore any remaining sights in the city. In the evening, join your trekking group for a farewell dinner, sharing stories and celebrating the incredible journey you’ve completed together.
On your final day in Nepal, enjoy breakfast at your hotel before your departure. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute activities or shopping. A representative from Himalayan Discovery Trek will assist you with your transfer to the airport for your onward journey. Depart with cherished memories of your Gokyo Chola & Everest Base Camp Trek, eager to share your adventures with others. Safe travels!
Miscellaneous
The Gokyo Chola & Everest Base Camp Trek is an adventurous trekking route in the Khumbu region of Nepal that combines the stunning Gokyo Lakes, the challenging Chola Pass, and the iconic Everest Base Camp. This trek typically spans 16 to 20 days, allowing trekkers to experience breathtaking mountain scenery, glacial lakes, and rich Sherpa culture, making it a favorite for seasoned trekkers.
The ideal times for the Gokyo Chola & Everest Base Camp Trek are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is generally stable, with clear views of the mountains and mild temperatures. Winter can bring harsh conditions, while the monsoon season from June to August can lead to rain and trail conditions that are more challenging.
This trek is considered challenging and requires a good level of fitness. Trekkers should be prepared for long days of hiking, often at high altitudes. It’s advisable to engage in a fitness regimen that includes cardio and strength training, as well as some practice hikes, to build endurance and prepare for the altitude.
The trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, which is a small mountain airport. This flight can be subject to delays due to weather, so it's important to plan for potential changes in your itinerary. From Lukla, you will start your trek towards Namche Bazaar, the main hub in the Everest region.
To trek in the Everest region, you need a Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card. These permits can be arranged through a trekking agency or obtained in Kathmandu. It's essential to have these permits before starting your trek.
Accommodations on this trek primarily consist of teahouses or lodges, which provide basic but comfortable amenities. Most lodges offer shared rooms, and meals are served in communal dining areas. Expect a mix of local and international cuisine, with options to cater to various dietary needs.
Altitude sickness is a risk on this trek, particularly as you ascend to higher elevations. To minimize this risk, it's crucial to acclimatize properly, hydrate well, and ascend gradually. Be aware of symptoms such as headaches, nausea, or fatigue. If you experience severe symptoms, descending to a lower altitude is necessary. Always consult with your guide for safety measures.
While independent trekking is possible, hiring a guide is highly recommended. A guide can enhance your experience by providing insights into the local culture, ensuring your safety, and assisting with logistics, including permits and accommodations. They also help navigate the trails, especially in challenging sections like the Chola Pass.
Packing smartly is essential for this trek. Key items include sturdy trekking boots, warm layers of clothing, a reliable sleeping bag, a good-quality backpack, and trekking poles. Don't forget essentials such as a first aid kit, water purification methods, sunscreen, and personal hygiene items. Layering is vital due to variable weather conditions.
