Everest Base Camp Trek Via Gokyo Lake offers a mesmerizing view of Gokyo Lakes along with the stunning snow-covered mountain range that includes the high mountains like Mt Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, Nuptse, and Pumori reaching Gokyo Ri, Everest Base Camp, and Kalapathar. It belongs to the moderate-grade trek. The trek begins from Lukla and seeks acclimatization for the beginner’s trek. Basically, most of the trekkers acclimatize them in Namche Bazaar which is also known as the Gateway of Mt Everest. Meanwhile, trekkers can hike to Everest View Hotel and have breakfast enjoying the impressive scenery of the Mahalangur Himalayan Range.
Some of the exciting attractions of this trek are Gokyo Ri 5357 m, EBC, and Kalapathar. From Gokyo Ri, we will enjoy the masterpiece scenery of Mt Everest, Mt Lhotse, Cho Oyu, etc largest mountains alongside Nzongma Glacier which is the biggest glacier of the Khumbu region.
Everest Base Camp Trek Via Gokyo Lake leads you through the identical path of Classic Everest Base Camp Trek following the edge of Dudhkoshi River until it reaches Namche Bazaar. The ways to Gokyo and EBC separate after 2-3 hours walk onward. But the ultimate destination of each and every trail of Everest is EBC and Kalapathar.
You may be scared of flying in a tiny spooky Kathmandu to Lukla flight, but it is a must to ensure your Everest Base Camp Trek in short days. You will be going to spend much amount of time in the mountains. However, proper acclimatization is very important, while it will be done in Namche Bazaar. From Namche Bazaar, you can take short steep hiking to Syangboche village from where you can enjoy the first glimpse of the astounding view of mountains like Mt Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Thamserku, etc.
The trek goes through pine and rhododendron forests, highlander grazing lands, chortens, and the flapping prayer’s flags.
Before you cross the Chola Pass, you need to pass the Ngozumpa Glacier and hike the Gokyo Ri which is one of the main highlights of this journey. From Gokyo Ri, you get the stunning view of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu closer while it will act as acclimatization at the same time.
While crossing the Chola pass, it will feel like your lifetime achievement. In order to cross the pass, you need to be ready early morning around 4-5 am before the winds start to flow. It is most probably going to be a tough day as you will be walking on set ice which will take 9 hours approximately.
This wonderful journey continues to bring vivacious feelings to you as the trek moves toward Gorakshep, the Everest Base Camp 5364 m, and the best viewpoint of Mt Everest i.e Kalapathar 5545m.
The trek certainly challenges trekkers with its long-distance walk, but its rewarding views and achievements will mesmerize anyone.
Day 01: Fly to Lukla, trek to Phakding
Day 02: Trek to Namche
Day 03: Acclimatization day at Namche
Day 04: Trek to Dole
Day 06: Trek to Machhermo
Day 07: Trek to Gokyo
Day 08: Acclimatization day at Gokyo (Hike to Gokyo Ri 5357 m)
Day 09: Trek to Dragnag
Day 10: Trek to Dzongla via Chola Pass (5420 m)
Day 11: Trek to Lobuche
Day 12: Trek to EBC via Gorakshep
Day 13: Hike to Kalapathar and descend to Pheriche via Lobuche
Day 14: Descend to Tengboche
Day 15: Return to Namche
Day 16: Return to Lukla
Day 17: Fly back to Kathmandu
What is the best time to trek Everest Chola Pass with Gokyo Lakes?
March to May and October to November are the best time to trek Everest Chola Pass with Gokyo Lakes as the weather usually becomes sunny and the sky is crystal clear at that time.
How difficult is it to trek Everest Chola Pass with Gokyo Lakes?
It is a moderate to strenuous level trek. But no one knows who will be suffered while trekking as the trek crosses and reaches over 5000 m. Even healthy younger and fit people can get altitude sickness, whereas old people have been achieving the trek successfully. So, in order to avoid altitude sickness, you can talk to your doctor or altitude specialist. But the common cure is just to go slowly, listening to what your body is demanding and suggesting of trekking guide.
Do I need to buy travel insurance?
Yes definitely! No travel agency provides travel insurance for customers in Nepal. They only provide for their own staff. Keep in mind that your travel insurance must cover high altitudes. WorldNomads and Covermore are considered to be the most reliable insurance companies.
How safe is natural water to use as drinking water in Everest?
We don’t suggest using tap water and natural water for drinking because it is not safe. However, you can use a water purifier to make it drinkable. Mineral water is not available on the trekking route. You can find it in the teahouse but it is expensive to buy; perhaps 9-10 times expensive than Kathmandu.
Should I bring a crampon for the trek?
No, a crampon is not needed unless you trek in the mid-winter. The trail is good enough to walk and cross the pass.
Click here to find all the recommended gear lists.
Do I need a porter to trek Everest Chola Pass and Gokyo Lakes?
It is preferred if you hire a porter. It may help you double in case of any emergency and you don’t need to take the burden of heavy bags that allows you to enjoy the trip fully. In addition, it will be helpful for the local community to improve their income.
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