Airport pickup and transfer to hotel Trip briefing and equipment check Overnight in Kathmandu
1 / 1
Gokyo Lakes-Cho La Pass & EBC Trek-The Ultimate Everest Circuit Trek Nepal(Standard)
19Days
Overview
Group Discounts per-person following group size
2-4 = $2096 pp, 5-9 = $1972 pp, 10+ = $1849 pp.
This spectacular trek combines the three highlights of the Everest region: the turquoise Gokyo Lakes, the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420 m), and the legendary Everest Base Camp (5,364 m). Along the way, trekkers experience Sherpa culture, ancient monasteries, the world's highest mountains, and some of the finest panoramic viewpoints in the Himalayas. The trek reaches Kala Patthar (5,545 m), offering the best close-up view of Mount Everest.
Trek Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 19 Days |
| Maximum Altitude | Kala Patthar (5,545 m) |
| Trek Difficulty | Challenging |
| Trek Type | Lodge / Teahouse |
| Best Seasons | March-May & September-November |
| Average Walking | 5-8 Hours Daily |
| Accommodation | Hotel & Teahouse |
| Required Fitness | Good Physical Condition |
Best Time to Go
Spring (March-May)
- Rhododendron forests in bloom
- Stable weather
- Excellent visibility
Autumn (September-November)
- Clear mountain views
- Dry trails
- Best trekking conditions
Important Note
Cho La Pass is a high-altitude alpine crossing and may become difficult during heavy snowfall or icy conditions. The itinerary may be adjusted by the guide for safety depending on weather and trail conditions. Recent trekkers have reported that sudden snowstorms can significantly affect pass crossings, making flexibility important.
Highlights
- Explore the stunning Gokyo Lakes
- Climb Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) for panoramic Himalayan views
- Cross the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420 m)
- Visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m)
- Sunrise from Kala Patthar (5,545 m)
- Experience Sherpa culture and hospitality
- Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery
- Walk alongside the Ngozumpa and Khumbu Glaciers
- Spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Pumori
- Trek through the heart of the UNESCO-listed Sagarmatha National Park
Trip Map
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Permit processing Optional sightseeing tour Overnight in Kathmandu
Flight: 30-35 minutes Trek: 3-4 hours Overnight at teahouse
Distance: 11 km Trek: 6-7 hours First views of Everest Overnight at teahouse
Hike to Everest View Hotel Visit Khumjung Village Overnight at teahouse
Distance: 11 km Trek: 5-6 hours Leave the main EBC trail and enter Gokyo Valley Overnight at teahouse
Distance: 7 km Trek: 4-5 hours Magnificent views of Cho Oyu Overnight at teahouse
Distance: 7 km Trek: 4-5 hours Cross the Ngozumpa Glacier Visit Gokyo Lakes Overnight at teahouse
Early morning hike to Gokyo Ri One of the best viewpoints in the Everest region Optional visit to Fifth Lake Overnight at Gokyo
Distance: 4 km Trek: 3-4 hours Preparation for Cho La Pass crossing Overnight at teahouse
Distance: 10 km Trek: 7-9 hours Most challenging day of the trek Spectacular glacier scenery Overnight at teahouse
Distance: 6 km Trek: 3-4 hours Join the classic Everest Base Camp route Overnight at teahouse
Distance: 15 km Trek: 7-8 hours Reach Everest Base Camp Return to Gorakshep Overnight at teahouse
Early morning Everest sunrise Best close-up view of Everest Trek down to Pheriche Overnight at teahouse
Distance: 20 km Trek: 7-8 hours Descend through Pangboche and Tengboche Overnight at teahouse
Distance: 18 km Trek: 7-8 hours Celebrate trek completion, say goodbye to the porters. Overnight at teahouse
Scenic mountain flight Transfer to hotel Free afternoon Overnight in Kathmandu
Buffer day for weather delays Shopping and relaxation Farewell dinner
Transfer to airport End of services
Cost Details
What's Included
- Achievement certificate after trek completion.
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- All domestic transportation as per itinerary
- All the required Permit charges
- Assistant Guide: Provided for groups larger than six people.
- Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek
- Duffel bag with the Hiking Friends Travel Nepal logo provided for the trek (must be returned at the end of the trek).
- Government taxes and service charges
- Licensed and first-aid trained English or German-speaking trekking guide
- Porter to carry your luggage during the trek (1 porter for every 2 trekkers, with a maximum load of 12 kg per guest and 24 kg per porter).
- Tea house accommodation during the trek
Not Included
- Any extra costs due to delays, natural disasters, or unforeseen circumstances
- Drinks, snacks, hot showers, and Wi-Fi during the trip if applicable
- International airfare to/from Kathmandu
- Meals and extra night accommodation in the cities(except breakfast)
- Nepal visa fee on arrival(15 days: USD 30, 30 days: USD 50, 90 days: USD 125).
- Personal equipment (sleeping bag, warm clothes trekking poles, suitable shoes etc.)
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver are not included (recommended: USD 8–20 per day, depending on your satisfaction with the service).
- Travel insurance (must cover high-altitude trekking)
Gear List
Clothing
Upper Body
- 2 Moisture-wicking trekking t-shirts, 1 Long-sleeve trekking shirt, 1 Fleece jacket, 1 Lightweight down jacket, 1 Waterproof/windproof shell jacket, 3 Sets of underwear
Lower Body
- 2 Trekking pants, 1 Thermal base layer bottom, 1 Waterproof rain pants, 3 Pairs trekking socks, 1 Pair warm wool socks
Head & Hands
- Sun hat or cap, Warm beanie, Neck buff or scarf, Lightweight gloves, Insulated gloves for Cho La Pass
Footwear
- Sturdy waterproof trekking boots, Camp shoes or sandals, Optional gaiters (spring and winter)
Sleeping Gear
- Four-season sleeping bag (-15°C to -20°C recommended)
Daypack Essentials
- Daypack (25–35L), Rain cover, Reusable water bottles (2L total capacity), Water purification tablets or filter, Sunglasses (UV protection), Sunscreen SPF 50+, Lip balm, Headlamp with spare batteries, Trekking poles, Camera or phone charger, Power bank
Personal Items
- Passport, Passport-size photos, Travel insurance copy, Cash (Nepalese Rupees), Personal medications, Toiletries, Wet wipes, Hand sanitizer, Quick-dry towel
Personal First Aid Kit
- Pain relievers, Band-aids, Blister treatment, Throat lozenges, Antiseptic cream, Anti-diarrheal medication, Rehydration salts
Optional Items
- Lightweight crampons/microspikes (early spring or late autumn), Binoculars, Journal or notebook, E-reader/book, Energy bars
What NOT to Bring
✘ Too many clothes, ✘ Heavy suitcases, ✘ Jeans, ✘ Cotton clothing for trekking, ✘ Excessive electronics ✘ Large bottles of toiletries
Recommended Trekking Weight
- Daypack: 5–7 kg
- Duffel Bag: Maximum 10–12 kg per trekker
Frequently Asked Questions
This is a challenging trek suitable for trekkers with good fitness and determination. Daily walking ranges from 5 to 9 hours, and the trek reaches elevations above 5,500 m.
Previous multi-day trekking experience is helpful but not mandatory. Good physical fitness, regular exercise, and a positive attitude are more important.
The highest point is Kala Patthar (5,545 m / 18,192 ft), followed by Cho La Pass (5,420 m / 17,782 ft).
Cho La Pass is challenging due to steep sections, snow, ice, and high altitude. With an experienced guide and proper preparation, it is generally safe during trekking seasons.
Anyone can experience altitude sickness regardless of age or fitness. The itinerary includes acclimatization days to reduce the risk. Guides monitor trekkers closely throughout the journey.
Weather can affect flights. The itinerary includes a buffer day in Kathmandu. Helicopter options may be available at additional cost if flights are cancelled.
Teahouses offer a variety of meals including:
Dal Bhat
Noodles
Fried Rice
Pasta
Soups
Potatoes
Eggs
Pancakes
Tea and Coffee
Dal Bhat
Noodles
Fried Rice
Pasta
Soups
Potatoes
Eggs
Pancakes
Tea and Coffee
Yes. Vegetarian meals are widely available throughout the Everest region.
Carry enough Nepalese Rupees for personal expenses such as drinks, snacks, showers, charging, Wi-Fi, and tips. ATMs are limited and unreliable beyond Namche Bazaar.
