Gokyo Lower Everest BC Trek
-
Duration
-
Type of Trip
-
Start City
-
End City
- Home
- Nepal Tourism
- Nepal Tour Package
- Gokyo Lower Everest BC Trek
Mt. Everest, standing at an incredible height of 8,848m, is a snow spire which towers over the world. It has captured the imagination of mankind for as long as we can remember, with books, movies and literature seeking to capture its mysterious aura in different ways. Somewhere, in the back of your mind, lingers the feeling of experiencing this natural spectacle up close. And you wait for the right opportunity, an example of which is this trekking tour! The 20N/21D Gokyo Lower Everest BC Trek is one of the most popular treks in Nepal, with thousands of tourists wanting to scale its summits every year. Mount Everest is nature’s eternal gift to mankind. On this trekking tour in Nepal, you are taken across some of the most fabulous sceneries you will ever come across. The Lower Everest mountain trekking adventure takes you past dreamy valleys, quaint villages and monasteries which seem lost in time. The trekking and hiking tour will also be punctuated by stops for some snacks at a local eatery, where you get a glimpse of everyday life. Glaciers and icefalls, this trek covers it all. The region of Gokyo located in the Khumbu district, is also one of the best places to get marvellous views of Mt. Everest. Sightseeing, adventure and exploration, this trek delivers each of them in a perfect package.
After arriving at the airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our representative. Then, you will be transferred to the hotel. Spend the day in rest and relaxation.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
On the second day of the tour, you will be taken on a half-day trip to the city of Kathmandu. Among the many places that the trip covers, one is Swayambhunath, a famous Buddhist stupa. Kathmandu is the capital and the largest city of Nepal, with tourism playing a key role in its economy. Since ancient times, it has been the hub of history, culture and art in Nepal. Swayambhunath is the oldest religious structure in Nepal. Located in the northwest part of the valley, it is mired in legends. According to historical sources, it was built during the 13th century by King Manadeva. Foreigners visiting the stupa also refer to it as Monkey Temple. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surroundings.
You are free in the evening and can spend it any way you like. You can also spend it preparing for the next day’s trekking.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
In the morning, you will catch a flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the duration of which is 30 minutes. This quaint town in the Solukhumbu district is located at an altitude of 2,886m and has its own airport. After arriving, you will begin the trek from Lukla to Phakding (located at an altitude of 2,640m), which will take you three hours approx. The entire route is dotted with tea shops, lodges, hotels and general stores. The trek begins by climbing the mountain side on the left bank of the River Dudh Kosi, which is also known as Dudh Kosi and Sapta Kosi. Located in eastern Nepal, it is formed by seven rivers which come together in east central Nepal. From here, you can enjoy the spectacular views of Nupla Peak, which proclaims its greatness at a height of 5,885m approx. After spending some time here, descend from a path in the mountain which meets the trekking route to Mt. Everest. During the descent, your eyes meet the sight of a valley located to the right, with Mt. Kusum Kang visible in the distance. It is locally known as Kusum Kanguru, which means the three snow white gods in the language spoken by the Sherpa community in Nepal, after its three summits. It is considered to be one of the most difficult mountains for climbing. As you continue the trek and pass the Mani Wall (a stone wall inscribed with Buddhist mantras which is placed alongside the road in Buddhist countries), you get closer to River Dudh Kosi. The trek continues along a path punctuated with several climbs and descents until you reach Phakding.
Overnight stay at Phakding.
Your trekking holidays in Nepal promise to get even more exciting and filled with adventures on this day. The trekking route on this day will start from Phakding and end at Namche Bazaar, with its entire duration being four hours. The distance between the two points is almost 10.4 km. Besides offering you with spectacular views along the way, this trek also lets you acclimatize to the thin air as you make your way to higher altitudes. You will also cross several high suspension bridges along the route. The landscape which greets your eyes along the way is characterized by cliffs and gorges. There is plenty of action and adventure to be had. A major attraction of this trek is the magnificent view of several mountain peaks like Mt. Kusum Kangru, Mt. Thamserku, Mt. Kongde Ri and Mt. Taboche. If you feel like, you can also visit the various monasteries in the villages during the trek.
Finally, you reach Namche Bazaar, located at an altitude of 3,440m. It is the main trading center of the Khumbu region and interestingly, most of the Sherpas of Nepal hail from this area. The entire village comes to life during the weekly market which is held on Saturdays. It attracts Hindu traders from the lower areas of the region as well as Tibetan yak caravans looking to sell their goods.
Overnight stay at Namche.
On this day of the Gokyo Lower Everest Base Trek, you will acclimatize to the environment and surroundings by trekking to places located in close proximity. Spread out on a ridge and overlooked by several mountain peaks in the Namche region, it boasts several tea shops and lodges. Tourists making a stop here are often surprised by the incredible views surrounding them on all sides. To help you acclimatize, you will be enjoying a walk to the village of Khumjung. This village is a part of Sagarmatha National Park (which is in itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site) in the Khumbu region. The majority inhabitants of this village belong to the Sherpa community. Make a brief stop here and treat your eyes to the charming views of various mountain peaks like Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, Nuptse, Lhotse and Kongde Ri. Alternatively, you also have the option of heading to Syangboche, located at an altitude of 3,800m approx. Take some to stop here and delight in the visual spectacle staring you at the face. You can also make your way towards the National Park Center and Museum which has a wide array of exhibits on Sherpa culture.
Overnight stay at Namche Bazaar.
This day is all about sightseeing and getting a brief cultural glimpse into the lifestyle of the people living in the Nepal Himalayas. Depart from the village of Namche and go along the small trail located above the River Dudh Kosi. Stop for some time and take a look at the views surrounding you here. The western side of the river is marked by the Nupla ridge and Mt. Kongde Himal. Mt. Thamserku marks its dominating presence to the south, while to the east, Mt. Lhotse and Mt. Nuptse, overlook the valley at Dingboche. And crowning all of these is Mt. Everest, appearing like a divine vision in the distance, once again reminding you of the infinite beauty of nature.
Strain your eyes a little more, and you can see the monastery of Tengboche Monastery, its white color starkly contrasted against the gigantic brown mountains. The monastery, which is also known as Dawa Choling Gompa, is situated at an altitude of 3,867m and is the largest monastery in the Khumbu region of Nepal. Make your way to the village of Khumjung. These villages are quite different from those found in Namche. Even after years of tourism, the lifestyle of the Sherpas has remained unaffected. Getting a glimpse of their way of life is a privilege. During your stay here, you can try a delicious Sherpa speciality called Riki Kur. You have the afternoon to yourself and can utilize it for further acclimatization.
Overnight stay at Khumjung.
Your trekking holidays in Nepal on this day starts with a delicious breakfast. That is followed by a descent to the west of the village which ultimately leads to River Dudh Kosi. On this route, you will be turning north and taking the road that is mostly used by trekkers to reach Tengboche and Everest Base Camp. There are two routes marking the first leg of the trek. The first one is the yak trails which rise graciously and aren’t so steep, while the other trail, built of rocks which have been placed in an opening in a large boulder, is quite challenging. However, the two trails soon meet after a while with the route leading to a large stupa, or chorten, which sits atop the ridge at a height of 3,973m. From the top of the ridge, the trail gradually makes its way down in a series of steep slopes marked by sharp bends all the way to River Dudh Kosi. Finally, you have reached Phortse Thanga.
Overnight stay at Phortse Thanga.
The day starts with a delicious breakfast at around 7 AM. Post breakfast, begin your journey to Dole. The trail route here gets quite steep as is emerges from the valley. As you continue, you pass through rhododendron forests which are followed by juniper and conifer trees, which appear in greater numbers with an increase in elevation. This trek is immensely popular with the tourists for the spectacular views it provides. During the spring however, with the blooming of rhododendrons flowers, beauty seems to take on a different meaning here. Along the trail, you cross several kharkas (settlements used by sherpas when they bring herds of yaks for grazing on the lush pasture). There are various settlements which fall along the way until you reach Dole. A few hotels and other accommodations can also be found. From here, you can enjoy the spectacular views of Mt. Khumbila, which in the local language means, God of Khumbu. It is one of the highest peaks in the Khumbu region and rises towards the skies at an altitude of 5761m. You can also decide to climb the ridge located just behind Dole to get a sweeping view of the valley.
Overnight stay at Dole.
On this day, you will be making your way from Dole to Machhermo, with a lot of adventure trekking making your day an exciting one. From Dole, the trail keeps ascending until it touches the village of Lambara, situated at a height of 4220m, and Luza, at 4360m. In most of the places, you will find the climb to be particularly steep even as it makes its way through shrub junipers, as they appear to dance in the wind. The route keeps going upwards along the side of the valley until it reaches the beautiful village of Machhermo, located at a height of 4410m. This village is extremely popular among trekkers on their way to Sagarmatha (highest point of Mount Everest) as it allows them to stop for rest and refreshment. An interesting tale circulating in the village is that of a Yeti attack in 1974 which killed three yaks along with a woman belonging to the Sherpa community. The village, which stretches itself luxuriously between two enormous mountains, is as beautiful as any you will ever come across.
Stay overnight at Machhermo.
On this day of the Gokyo Lower Everest Trek, you will follow the trail which reaches out and finally comes to an end at a ridge. This place offers mesmerizing views of the valley spread out below, as well as that of Mt. Kantega, which is located at a height of 6782m and Cho Oyu (which is the sixth highest mountain of the region and is situated at a height of 8188m). Once you cross the ridge however, the valleys begins to open itself. The trail now cuts its way through Mt. Pangka, located at a height of 4390m. Then, it makes a graceful descent till the river bank before rising again to the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpa Glacier. This part of the trek promises to be quite challenging. Climbing the moraine challenges your endurance and stamina, but the sheer thrill and adventure that it provides is certainly worth it. The zigzagging road along the stream crosses a lake whose elevation is 4650m. This lake is famous for being home to the Brahminy ducks. As you go further, the trail gradually loses its steepness and continues that way all the way to Gokyo. Situated at a height of 4750m, it is one of the highest settlements in Nepal and the world. The views are, like always, something to talk about.
Overnight stay in Gokyo.
Your day begins with a delicious and healthy breakfast. After this, set off for trekking in the Gokyu region. There are many things to explore here and incredible views to be enjoyed. One of the most panoramic views which you can have is by climbing to Gokyo Ri. Indeed, Gokyo trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in the region. Gokyo Peak is situated at a height of 5357m and is located just beside the Ngozumpa Glacier, famous for being the largest glacier in Nepal as well as the entire Himalayas. It will take you anywhere from 2 to 3 hours to reach the peak. Once you are there, the enchanting views of Cho Oyu, Gyaching Kang, Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cholatse and Twachee promise to make your day. You can decide to take the route towards the valley. Along the way, you will pass through several peaks which are truly a visual spectacle to come across.
Overnight stay in Gokyo.
Today’s trek begins with the descent from Gokyo and passes through the second lake. Between the first and second lakes which lie along the route, the trail leads across the moraine to the east. Here, you will pass Cho La, also known as Chhugyuma. It is a summit pass located at a height of 5420m in the Solukhumbu district, and connects the village of Dzongla in the east to Thagnak in the west. The pass is steep and also involves a glacier crossing on the eastern side. You will have to utilize various equipments for negotiating the small icefall located at the foot of the glacier including ice axe, rope and crampons. The western approach to the pass, however, differs in degrees of difficulty. Under any circumstances, the pass is not suitable for the use of yaks and heavily laden porters. You will be spending a night at Chhugyuma and Dzongla on the other side of the pass.
Your trek continues along the moraine, with views of Mt. Kala Patthar and Pumori. Finally, you reach Lobuche, a small settlement located in the Khumbu region of Nepal near to Mt. Everest. Located at a height of 4940m, it is used as a crossing route by sherpas and hundreds of porters. This will be the last stop for the day before you begin the climb for the base camp tomorrow. Rest, relax, recuperate and utilize this time for acclimatization.
Overnight stay at Labouche.
Trekking in the Himalayas begins early in the morning. Since the trek begins quite early in the morning, you can expect it to be challenging and demanding, both physically and mentally. You will take the route which lies above Lobuche and runs alongside Khumbu Glacier. The terrain here is quite rough and steep, but full of adventure and excitement. Continue trekking till you reach Gorak Shep. Situated at a height of 5164m, it is a frozen lakebed covered with sand, and also the name of a small settlement situated on its edge. It serves as the final stop for most trekkers on their way to Everest Base Camp from Lukla. Here, you will take a short break to rest and recharge your body with fluids. After walking again for about an hour and a half, you finally reach Kala Patthar. Kala Patthar, which means black rock in Nepali language, is located on the southwest ridge of Pumori above Gorak Shep. It is a very famous landmark and the only place which provides the clearest and closest view of Mt. Everest. When you stop and take a look at the surroundings, you are instantly reminded that it is for moments such as these that you undertake trekking expeditions. Apart from the heavenly views of Mt. Everest, you are also surrounded by enormous glaciers. On the south lies the Khumbu glacier, while the north is marked by several mountain peaks including Lho La (At a height of 6006m, it is the lowest point of the west ridge of Mt. Everest). It is interesting to know that Mt. Everest was recognised as the highest peak on earth in 1852 and was named Everest in honor of Sir George Everest, who was a British surveyor and geographer. After spending some time taking in the beauty of this place, return to Lobuche.
Stay overnight at Lobuche.
Today’s trek promises to be less challenging than yesterday, although certainly not lacking in excitement and adventure. The route which you will follow today is located mostly on lower altitudes. It starts by following the wide alpine valley dressed in shrub junipers which is home to a small settlement called Phulung Karpo (enjoying an elevation of 4343m). Then, it makes its way to Pheriche. Pheriche is a small sleepy village located in the Khumbu region of eastern Nepal. There are several tea houses dotting this place, along with low stone buildings which mostly serve the purpose of summer settlement. The trek then continues to Orsho followed by Lower Pangboche (Pangboche is a village located in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal. There is a monastery inside the village which houses a Yeti scalp and hand. It is inhabited mainly by members of the Sherpa community). From here, make your way to Deboche (a village inhabited by members of the Sherpa community) before finally reaching Tengboche.
The village of Tengboche, situated at a height of 3867m, is home to the Tengboche Monastery, the largest monastery in the Khumbu region. Situated on a ridge, the village is enveloped by colossal Himalayan peaks. Built in 1916 by Lama Gulu, the monastery is overlooked by the mountain peaks of Everest, Tawache, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam and Thamserku. Surrounded by ancient mani stones, it is popular among tourists for its exquisite paintings which date back to the 14th century. The tranquility in the monastery does much to uplift tired minds. You can explore the monastery and even meditate for a while, it it appeals to you.
Overnight stay at Tengboche.
The trail which you will follow on this day is not very different from the one you followed yesterday. It crosses a forest of juniper, rhododendron and fir, all the way to Phunki Tenga. Continue the trek by crossing the Dudh Kosi, which is followed by a steep ascension to Tashinga. Make a brief halt at Shanasa before returning to Namche Bazaar.
Overnight stay at Namche.
Your day starts with a healthy breakfast, a perfect start to a perfect day. After enjoying your breakfast, set off for a hiking trip of three hours to explore the village of Thamel. Located in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal, this village, so many other villages in this region, is inhabited by members of the Sherpa community. One of the most famous Sherpa mountaineers in the world, Apa Sherpa, who holds the record for climbing Mt. Everest 21 times, also resides here. It is also interesting to know that this village was also the home of Tenzing Norgay, who, along with Sir Edmund Hillary, was the first man to climb Mount Everest. Here, you will visit the famous Thame monastery. The monastery is believed to have been built around 350 years ago, in the steep hillside, and was built at the same time as the other monasteries in the region like Pangboche, Rimijung and Kerok. This monastery is also famous for hosting the Mani Rimdu festival. After visiting the monastery, you can also explore the village and get a glimpse into the lifestyle of the people. Return back to Namche.
Overnight stay at Namche.
In the morning, depart Namche and continue with your trek. Today, you will follow the route which goes downwards along Dudh Kosi. Then, after making one final ascent, you will reach the Lukla plateau by mid-afternoon. After arriving in Lukla, relax, enjoy and unwind. This is a great time to celebrate the fact that you have completed the trek.
Overnight stay at Lukla.
In the morning, you will be transferred to the Lukla Airport to catch your flight back to Kathmandu. After arriving, get in touch with your representative at the airport followed by an assisted transfer to the hotel.
Today you will be transferred to the airport to resume with your onward journey. This has been one of the best trekking tour in Nepal and has gifted you with the most beautiful memories and amazing moments.
Copyright © 2024 Tour My India. All Rights Reserved.
