Everest Gokyo Cho La Pass Trek itinerary

Your adventure begins with an early 35-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. During this flight, you will experience breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges. You then land at the legendary Tenzing-Hillary Airport, which is arguably the heart of the Khumbu region.

After a quick breakfast in Lukla, your trek will begin with a gentle descent through lovely Sherpa villages and across suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River. Along the way, you’ll pass Chheplung village with a view of the sacred Mt. Khumbila (5,761 meters).

After about three hours, you’ll reach Phakding. It is a quiet riverside village where you’ll spend the night at a cozy teahouse. Use the time to rest to prepare yourself for the adventure ahead.

Pro Tip for the Day: Keep your camera handy during the flight for stunning aerial shots of the Himalayas. Also, start hydrating early to help with acclimatization.

After breakfast in Phakding, your trek continues along the banks of the Dudh Koshi River. You will cross the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge, one of the highlights of the day. Along the trail, you come across a stunning view of Mt. Thamserku (6,608 m) as you pass through villages like Bengkar and Monjo.

At Monjo, you’ll enter Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you have to register your trekking permits. From this checkpoint, the trail becomes more challenging with a steep ascent through pine forests. Regardless, this section rewards you with your first glimpse of Mt. Everest.

After a final push uphill, you’ll arrive at Namche Bazaar. A vibrant hub of the Khumbu region which is also known as the "Gateway to Everest."

Today is a vital day for acclimating to a higher altitude. After breakfast, you’ll begin a short detour to the famous Everest View Hotel (situated at nearly 4,000 meters). From this spot, you can see picture-perfect views of mountains like Everest, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, Cho-Oyu, Thamserku, and more.

This is a great spot for soaking in the view and taking some photos for yourself. After that, you can descend to Namche and spend the rest of your day exploring. There are some museums and art galleries that are worth visiting. Here you can learn about Sherpa culture and the history of the Everest Trail.

Overnight stay at Namche.

You will begin your journey today by ascending steeply from Namche Bazaar through Khumjung Hill. The path then makes its way down to the Dudh Koshi River. On your way you will discover breathtaking views of Ama Dablam and Lhotse. As you continue walking through the area the surrounding scenery becomes even more mesmerizing with peaceful pine and rhododendron forest.

After a short break in Kyanjuma, you will walk along the elevated trail to Gokyo. The trail follows rugged territory while offering safety railings against steep slopes. After some effort, you’ll reach the Mongla Pass, where you can rest at some teahouses.

From here, it’s a steep descent to the Dudh Koshi River where you have to cross a small bridge. After that, a gentle ascent brings you to Phortse Thanga. It is a peaceful village settled near the river.

Overnight stay at a lodge.

You begin your day with a steep climb out of Phortse Thanga. If you’re trekking in spring, you will find the trail decorated with beautiful blooming rhododendron flowers. This creates a vibrant and colorful landscape. Then, the trail runs alongside the peaceful Dudh Koshi River through multiple waterfalls and small streams.

After a steady climb, you’ll arrive at Dole. Here, you can take a break and enjoy lunch at a local teahouse. The trail then continues upward, offering views of snow-capped peaks. As you ascend, the route becomes less crowded. It offers a peaceful atmosphere far from the bustling trails of the main Everest Base Camp route.

After a final push, you’ll arrive at Machherma. It is a small village marked by a beautiful chhorten. The views from here are spectacular, with towering mountains surrounding you on all sides. This place stands out for its incredible mountain views which wrap around from every direction.

Once you reach Machherma, you’ll settle into a teahouse for the night. Make sure you take some time to relax to prepare for the higher altitudes in the days ahead.

Today’s trek begins with a gradual climb from Machhermo. Along the path, enjoy stunning views of Kang Taiga and Cho Oyu. The trail briefly descends to the river before ascending along the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas.

After crossing a small iron bridge, you’ll reach the first Gokyo Lake, Longpongo (4,690m). Its calm waters reflect the surrounding peaks. As you move further, you’ll encounter the second lake, Taboche Tsho. After crossing the lake, you finally arrive at Gokyo village. The peaceful village offers breathtaking views of the glacier and towering Himalayan peaks.

Here, you can settle into cozy teahouses and rest for the night.

Today is one of the most rewarding days of the trek. It is your second detour. You’ll start early to hike up the steep trail to Gokyo Ri, one of the best viewpoints in the Everest region. The climb is challenging but worth every step. Here, you’re rewarded with breathtaking sunrise views of Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu, Lhotse, and the surrounding peaks. The golden glow of sunrise over the mountains is a sight you’ll never forget.

After soaking in the views, descend carefully back to Gokyo village. Here, you can spend the rest of the day resting or exploring the serene surroundings.

Today’s trek is short but filled with incredible scenery. You will leave Gokyo village and cross the vast Ngozumpa Glacier. The route is less crowded, and only a few trekkers choose to walk on this route. You can enjoy your walk in peace while savoring the dramatic views of the mountains.

As you descend, you’ll pass by the first and second Gokyo Lakes. Here, you can spot the sacred Lama footprints etched into a stone near Longpongo Lake.

After a steady hike, you’ll reach Thangna. It is a small settlement nestled at the base of steep cliffs. Enjoy a well-deserved rest at the teahouse and prepare for tomorrow’s adventurous journey.

Overnight in Thangna.

Today is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of your trek. Your day begins early. You hike toward the Cho La Pass which is a steep challenging ascent. However, the stunning and breathtaking views of Ama Dablam, Cholatse, and Lobuche make every step worthwhile.

After about three hours, you’ll reach the top of Cho La Pass. The pass is marked by colorful prayer flags. From here, you have to walk carefully over icy terrain. This glacier crossing can be tricky, so move slowly.

Once across, the trail descends steeply towards Dzongla village. The peaceful atmosphere here is the perfect reward after a demanding day.

Overnight in Dzongla.

Today's trek is shorter and more relaxed, giving you time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and recharge for the challenges ahead. After a warm breakfast in Dzongla, you’ll begin by descending through a grassy trail with stunning views of Lobuche Peak.

The path gradually winds along the Lobuche Khola, following the wide riverbed. Along the way, you’ll catch breathtaking glimpses of Pheriche and Dhugla. The calm atmosphere and natural beauty make this trek a refreshing experience.

After about four hours, you’ll arrive at Lobuche. It is a small settlement that serves as a key stop for trekkers heading towards Everest Base Camp. Spend the rest of the day relaxing and enjoying the mountain views.

Overnight in Lobuche.

This is the day you’ve been waiting for!!! The journey to the legendary Everest Base Camp (EBC). The day starts early with a hearty breakfast at Lobuche as you prepare for a long and thrilling adventure. The initial part of the trek takes you along a narrow path through the Khumbu Glacier.

After 2–3 hours of walking, you’ll reach Gorak Shep. The area is not a real village but a group of teahouses made for trekkers and climbers on this path. This spot used to be the original base camp for Everest expeditions.

The trek to Everest Base Camp takes 3–4 hours from Gorak Shep. From here, the hike is hard because there is much less oxygen in the air. Make your way slowly and stop at intervals to catch your breath. But your every step brings you closer to the foot of the highest mountain on Earth.

After you get to the EBC, you can take photos and enjoy your time here. You can see the Khumbu Glacier and Khumbu Icefall. Plus, Nuptse, Khumbuste, and Pumori peaks can be also seen from the base camp. After spending some time at EBC, you’ll hike back to Gorak Shep, where you will spend the night.

This is another exciting day of the trek. You will wake up early to hike up to Kala Patthar. It is one of the best viewpoints in the Everest region. The climb starts when it’s still dark, but as you make your way up, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most stunning sunrises you’ll ever see.

The view from the top of Kala Patthar is breathtaking. You’ll have a 360-degree panoramic view of the mighty Mount Everest and many surrounding peaks. Here, mountains appear magical as the first light of day paints them in shades of gold and pink. It’s a moment you’ll never forget.

After enjoying the incredible view, you’ll head back to Gorak Shep for breakfast. Then, it’s time to start your descent. You will move downward passing through Lobuche and the Khumbu Glacier. From there, you’ll continue to Pheriche. It is a peaceful village located just below Dingboche.

By the time you arrive in Pheriche, you’ll be ready to relax and enjoy a warm meal. The peaceful village offers a much-needed break.

Overnight in Pheriche.

The path today leads you back to Namche Bazaar. Along the way, you’ll experience the lifestyle and traditions of the Sherpas. You might even get to see the renowned Tengboche Monastery in Tengboche village.

From there, make your way down towards Phunki Thanga. Here, keep an eye out for wildlife like snow leopards, mountain goats, and colorful pheasants.

After some steep ascents and descents, you’ll finally reach Namche Bazaar. This town is the perfect place to relax after your long day of trekking. You’ll find plenty of cafes and shops where you can grab a hot drink and enjoy the vibrant local market. It’s a nice break.

You’ll spend the night here in a comfortable guesthouse. Preparing for your journey back to Lukla.

Your journey today takes you back to Lukla. The trail begins with a steep descent, passing through beautiful forests. After crossing suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River, you’ll stop for a lunch break in Phakding.

After lunch, the path becomes less steep as you move toward Lukla. As you walk down, admire the view of the mountains for this last time. Once you arrive in Lukla, celebrate the completion of your trek with your crew.

In Lukla, rest in a guesthouse and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed. It’s the perfect end to an unforgettable adventure.

Overnight in Lukla.

Today, your journey comes to an end. You will board a flight from Lukla to return to Kathmandu after enjoying a filling breakfast. During your 35-minute flight back, you get to witness breathtaking views of the Himalayan range and the stunning landscapes you've trekked through.

Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. Take some time to relax and freshen up. During your free time you may choose to explore the city.

In the evening, enjoy a celebratory dinner with your trek crew and fellow travelers. It's a time to share stories, thank the crew, and savor the memories of the trek.