TO THE BASE OF THE WORLD’S HIGHEST MOUNTAIN.
The ultimate trekking challenge following in the footsteps of Hilary and Tensing Norgay, this trek will take it in the region, where traditionally base camps have been erected to expeditions, continuing up to the summit of Everest. The trek is a combination of the Gokyo and Kalapathar treks. From Gokyo, more of Everest itself is visible, though from a slightly greater distance than from Kala Pattar above Gorak Shep.
The mountains are spectacular, the Ngozumpa Glacier is the largest in the Nepal Himalaya and from a ridge above Gokyo, four 8000 m peaks (Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse and Makalu) are visible at once. The view of the tremendous ice ridge between Cho Oyu (8153 m) and Gyachung Kang (7922 m) is one of the most dramatic panoramas in Khumbu. The route will also take us through Cho La, a 5420 meter-high pass into Khumbu and then walk upto Kalapathar from where you can get closer view of the Everest Range.
Transfer to Hotel and a full expedition briefing and preparation.
After breakfast from 9 AM your sightseeing tours begin in Kathmandu including Monkey Temple, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath Stupa. Trip finishes at 5 PM and then return to hotel.
After breakfast at the hotel, drive to the domestic airport to fly to Lukla. Trek to the village of Phakding along the Dudh Kosi River, passing Choblung and Ghat villages. Overnight in Phakding.
Trek beside the Dudh Kosi to the confluence with Bhote Kosi, cross the large suspension bridge, and ascend through pine forests to Namche Bazaar. Stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Taweche.
Acclimatization day. Explore the village, climb to nearby ridges for sunrise views over Khumbu peaks, or visit the National Park Headquarters to learn about Sherpa culture and local flora and fauna.
Descend west of Namche through the broad valley leading to the Dudh Kosi River. Climb above Thyangboche route to a ridge at 3973 meters, then descend switchbacks to Phortse Thanghka for overnight.
Steep climb through rhododendron and juniper forests, passing Tongba (3950m) and Gyele (3960m) to reach Dole for overnight stop.
Steep climb along the valley side, crossing sandy spurs to reach Machhermo at 4410 meters. Overnight stay.
Climb a ridge, pass through Pangka (4390m), descend to the riverbank, climb the Ngozumpa Glacier moraine, and reach Gokyo (4750m) for overnight stay.
Explore Gokyo. Climb Gokyo Ri (5318m) for panoramic views of Cho Oyu, Gyachung Kang, Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cholatse, and Tawachee. Overnight in Gokyo.
Cross Cho La Pass (5420m) involving glacier crossing; use ice axe, crampons, and rope if needed. Arrive Dzongla for overnight.
Steep trail for about 4 hours to Lobuje. Rest and prepare for visit to Everest Base Camp the next day.
Early morning trek to Everest Base Camp. Return and spend evening at Gorkshep.
Climb Kala Patthar (5630m) for exceptional Everest views. Descend through alpine valley via Phulung Karpo (4343m) to Chukung.
Meet the crew, check equipment, and rest.
Trek to Island Peak Base Camp.
Summit day: depart Base Camp at 2 a.m., return by lunch, and back to Chukung.
Extra day for summit in case of bad weather or illness on Day 17.
Descend via Orsho, Lower Pangboche, Deboche to Thyangboche for lunch. Continue through juniper, rhododendron, and fir forest, cross Dudh Kosi, steep descent to Trashinga, and reach Namche Bazaar.
Steep descent along Bhote Kosi, cross the river, stop at Phakding for lunch, then final ascent to Lukla plateau for overnight.
Fly back to Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel, relax, and enjoy an informal dinner.
Free day for shopping, sightseeing, and relaxing. Gala dinner in the evening to celebrate the achievement.
Depart Kathmandu for home.
Packing the right gear makes a big difference to your trekking experience. One porter is assigned for every two trekkers. Each porter carries a maximum of 22 kg, so the luggage allowance is 11 kg per trekker.
We recommend sharing a duffle bag (60+ liters) with your trekking partner for porter use. You should also carry a small daypack (20–30 liters) for valuables, documents, water, and daily essentials. Any extra luggage can be securely stored at your hotel free of charge during the trek.
While personal preferences may vary, the following packing list will help you stay warm, safe, and comfortable on the trail.
We can provide a (used, non-waterproof) duffle bag, (used) down jacket, and (used) sleeping bag if you do not have your own.
