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. Full expedition briefing and preparation.
After breakfast from 9 AM, sightseeing begins, including Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath), Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath Stupa. Trip finishes around 5 PM and return to hotel.
Swayambhunath: The temple is colloquially known as the 'Monkey Temple'. The central stupa is topped by a block featuring Buddha's eyes, surrounded by a series of prayer wheels.
Pashupatinath: Pre-eminent Hindu temple, significant Shiva site. Cremation ghats are along the Bagmati River.
Boudhanath: Largest stupa in Nepal, center for Tibetan community. Late afternoon is best for prayer services and circumambulation.
Drive to domestic airport for flight to Lukla (35 min). Trek to Phakding (3 hours). Overnight at guest house, Altitude 2623m.
Trek along Dudh Kosi and Bhote Kosi rivers, cross suspension bridge, ascend through pine forests to Namche Bazaar (6 hours). Visit Sherpa Museum. Overnight at guest house, Altitude 3440m.
Rest day for acclimatization. Optional ridge hike for sunrise views of Everest, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. Explore local village, Thami Valley, or National Park HQ.
Trek follows flat route in morning, then steep ascent to Tengboche (5 hours). Visit famous monastery and local bakery. Overnight at guest house, Altitude 3867m.
Short but scenic trek, descending through rhododendron forests, crossing bridges, ascend past Pangboche and Gompas (5 hours). Overnight at guest house, Altitude 4350m.
Steep morning ascent to Duglha ridge above Pheriche, views of Cho La Pass and Lobuche peak. Easy walk to Lobuche (7 hours). Overnight at guest house, Altitude 4930m.
Attempt Everest Base Camp (long trek ~9 hours) or stop at Gorakshep for lunch and climb Kala Patthar in afternoon, depending on weather. Overnight at guest house, EBC 5364m, Altitude 5288m.
Early morning hike to Kala Patthar (5630m) for Everest views. Descend along alpine valley through Phulung Karpo (4343m) to Chhukung. Meet climbing team and rest.
Acclimatization and instructional day at camp preparing for Island Peak.
Trek to Island Peak Base Camp.
Summit Island Peak early morning, descend and return to Chhukung after lunch.
Alternative day to summit Island Peak due to bad weather or illness. Trek continues along glacier moraine to Lobuche (4930m).
Trek down to Orsho, through Lower Pangboche and Deboche to Thyangboche for lunch. Continue through juniper and rhododendron forests to Phunkitenga, cross Dudh Kosi, descend steeply to Trashinga, then proceed to Namche Bazaar.
Steep descent along Bhote Kosi, cross river, stop at Phakding for lunch. Final ascent to Lukla plateau for overnight stay.
Fly back to Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel and relax. Informal dinner in the evening.
Free day for shopping, sightseeing, or relaxation. Gala dinner in the evening.
Depart Kathmandu for home.
Packing the right gear makes a big difference to your trekking experience. To keep things easy and comfortable, 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.
Note: We can provide a used (non-waterproof) duffle bag, down jacket, and sleeping bag if you do not have your own.
