Trek to Gokyo Valley and Everest Base Camp

Trekking any part of the majestic Himalayan mountains is an amazing adventure. One popular route is the intense 16-day trek to Mt Everest Base Camp, but of course this program is not for everyone. I'd like to offer you a more relaxed trek that reaches the Everest Base Camp through the Gokyo Valley. On this 20-day trek we test our limits while cherishing the surrounding area.

The Gokyo Lakes region is located at the head of the Dudh Kosi Valley. Gokyo Tso is the principal lake and is part of Nepal’s Sagarmatha National Park, at an altitude of 4,700m (15,400ft) above sea level. Sagarmatha National Park is also home to Mt. Everest (8,848 m) and many other of the world's highest peaks. Sagarmatha, known locally as "Khumbu," is a rugged area with glaciers, deep gorges, and impassable rock and ice faces. It is also the home of the famous Sherpa people.

On this trip, we trek through the Sherpa heartland and summit Gokyo Ri (4790 m) before arriving at Everest Base Camp (5365 m). This way, we have lots of time to acclimatize and we get to explore a lot the region. The summit of Gokyo Ri is one of the highlights of the trip because from there we have a great view of Everest and the 8000 m peaks of Lhoste, Cho-Oyu, and Makalu. Another highlight is crossing chola pass glacier (5380 m), the highest point of the trip and probably the highest point of your life.

I hope during the trek you also take the time to appreciate the Sherpa culture. The Sherpas have historically lived by farming potatoes and barley and grazing yaks at high altitudes. But recently they have become well-known in the mountaineering and trekking industry. They are highly skilled mountaineers, and loyal and friendly.

You will also have the chance to observe the unique surrounding wildlife. Common animals in this region are the Musk deer, Himalaya Tahr, Pikka weasal, Ghoral, and jackal. The Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, wolf, and lynx also live in this area.

I urge you to consider this incredible trip to the Himalayas, accompanied by me, a local certified guide. I will make sure you have the experience of your life. Contact me for more information. I'm looking forward to meeting you in the mountains. 

Inspired? Check out other trips I lead in Nepal, like this summit of Ama Dablam.