Everest Base Camp with Gokyo Lake Helicopter Return Trek – 15 Days

• Flight Distance: 138 km (86 miles)
• Flight Duration/ Trek Duration: 25-30 minutes / 3-4 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch &Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Lukla (2,860m/9,383ft) & Phakding (2,610m/8,563ft)

Today, you will fly to Lukla, a small town perched high in the mountains, which is the gateway to the Everest region. The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is an exciting 25-30 minute journey, providing a thrilling first view of the Himalayan range. Upon arrival in Lukla, you will meet your guide and porter, and the trek begins. The first day of the trek is relatively short, taking around 3-4 hours to reach Phakding. The trail is scenic, following the Dudh Koshi River, passing through forests of rhododendron, pine, and fir. Along the way, you’ll cross several suspension bridges, providing glimpses of the soaring mountains in the distance.

After reaching Phakding, a small Sherpa village, you will check into your lodge. You can spend the afternoon relaxing and acclimatizing to the altitude. The first day’s trek is mild, helping your body get used to the increasing altitude. The surrounding environment of Phakding is peaceful, and you can enjoy the sound of the river and the views of the snow-capped peaks that will be your companions for the coming days.

• Trek Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
• Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Namche Bazaar (3,440m /11,283ft)

Today, you will trek to Namche Bazaar, the largest town in the region and a crucial acclimatization stop. The trek takes around 6-7 hours, and the trail is steadily uphill with some steeper sections. As you walk through Benkar, Monjo, and Jorsalle villages, the path follows the Dudh Koshi River before ascending a steep hill to reach the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park. After passing through the park entrance, the trail climbs more gradually through a forest of pine and fir, with occasional stunning views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse.

The last section of the trek involves a steep ascent, but once you reach Namche Bazaar, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Namche Bazaar, located at 3,440m, is a bustling Sherpa town with a variety of shops, cafes, and a vibrant market. You’ll check into your lodge here and have the rest of the afternoon to explore the town and acclimatize to the altitude.

• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Namche Bazaar (3,440m /11,283ft)

Today is an important acclimatization day, and you’ll spend it in Namche Bazaar. It’s essential to allow your body to adjust to the increasing altitude before continuing the trek. You will take a short hike to the Everest View Hotel at 3,880m to enjoy magnificent views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. From here, you’ll also have a chance to see the Khumbu Icefall and the entire Sagarmatha Range.

The rest of the day can be spent visiting Namche Bazaar's local market, checking out the Sherpa Cultural Museum, or exploring Namche’s monasteries. This day is crucial not just for physical acclimatization but also for absorbing the local culture. Spending time exploring the area will also make you more comfortable with the high-altitude environment, so your body can adjust better for the days to come.

• Trek Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
• Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Tengboche (3,870m /12,694ft)

Today’s trek begins with a gentle ascent out of Namche, following a ridge with stunning views of Ama Dablam, Everest, and Thamserku. The trail traverses hillsides covered in rhododendron forests and drops down to the Dudh Koshi River. After crossing the river on a suspension bridge, a steep climb awaits as you ascend toward Tengboche, one of the most spiritually significant locations in the Khumbu region.

Upon reaching Tengboche, you’ll be welcomed by jaw-dropping views of Ama Dablam and the surrounding Himalayan giants. The highlight of the day is a visit to the Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the region, where you can witness the daily prayer ceremony and absorb the peaceful energy of the place. Surrounded by forests and peaks, this sacred site offers a tranquil resting point before continuing your journey further into the high Himalayas.

• Trek Distance: 11 km (6.8 miles)
• Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Dingboche (4,410m /14,470ft)

Leaving Tengboche, the trail descends through lush forests filled with birch, conifer, and rhododendron trees. After crossing the Imja River, the landscape begins to change, becoming more barren and alpine. As you move higher, the temperature drops, and the views become even more dramatic, with closer perspectives of Lhotse and Island Peak.

Dingboche is a picturesque village nestled in a wide valley, flanked by towering peaks and open alpine meadows. Unlike the tightly packed villages of lower elevations, Dingboche offers expansive views and more space to roam. Here, the air is noticeably thinner, and you’ll feel the effects of the high altitude. Most trekkers use this time to rest, explore nearby ridges, or relax at their lodges, preparing for the next acclimatization day.

• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Dingboche (4,410m /14,470ft)

As you ascend higher, acclimatization becomes crucial. Today, you'll take a rest day in Dingboche to allow your body to adjust to the thinning air. Instead of remaining inactive, you'll embark on a short hike to Nagarjun Hill (5,100m), a nearby ridge that offers commanding views of Makalu, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and the surrounding peaks. This acclimatization hike is challenging due to the steep incline and altitude, but the panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort.

After returning to Dingboche, you can spend the afternoon exploring the village or resting at your lodge. The wide, sun-kissed valley is ideal for strolling, taking photos, or simply soaking in the tranquil alpine atmosphere. Many lodges offer cozy common rooms where you can warm up by the fire and chat with fellow trekkers about your journey so far.

• Trek Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
• Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Lobuche (4,940m /16,207ft)

Today’s trek takes you deeper into the Khumbu region, with the landscape becoming more rugged and barren. The trail begins with a gradual ascent through alpine meadows and yak pastures, passing the village of Dughla (Thukla), where you’ll take a short break for tea or snacks.

After Dughla, a steep and emotionally moving climb brings you to the Thukla Pass, where you'll find memorials and stone cairns honoring climbers who lost their lives on Everest. This section of the trek is both solemn and inspiring, reminding you of the mountain's power and the courage of those who dared to climb it.

From the pass, the trail continues along the glacial moraine to Lobuche, a small settlement nestled among dramatic, snow-covered peaks. With the air growing thinner and colder, rest becomes even more important. Spend the evening hydrating, eating a warm meal, and mentally preparing for the most anticipated part of your trek — Everest Base Camp.

• Trek Distance: 14.9 km (9.2 miles)
• Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Everest Base Camp (5,364m /17,598ft)

The big day has arrived! After an early breakfast, you'll begin your trek to Gorak Shep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. The trail follows the Khumbu Glacier, with its shifting ice formations and dramatic moraine. Upon reaching Gorak Shep, you'll check into your lodge, leave your heavy packs behind, and continue the trek to Everest Base Camp.

The route to base camp is a challenging but exhilarating walk over rocky terrain alongside the glacier. Upon arrival at the iconic Everest Base Camp, you’ll be standing at the foot of the highest mountain in the world — a moment of pride, awe, and accomplishment. Soak in the views of the Khumbu Icefall and surrounding peaks, and take plenty of photos to commemorate the achievement.

After spending some time at base camp, you’ll return to Gorak Shep for the night, where a warm meal and well-earned rest await.

• Trek Distance: 11 km (6.8 miles)
• Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Kala Patthar (5,545m/18,192ft) & Dzongla (4,830/15,850ft)

Before dawn, you’ll set off on a hike to Kala Patthar — the highest point of your trek. The early start is rewarded with a stunning sunrise over Everest, with golden light illuminating the Himalayas in every direction. Kala Patthar offers the best close-up views of Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, and the surrounding peaks — a photographer’s dream and a highlight of the trek.

After descending back to Gorak Shep for breakfast, you’ll begin the return journey, heading down the valley to Dzongla. The descent is noticeably easier, and with more oxygen in the air, you’ll feel re-energized. Dzongla offer panoramic views of different peaks & you can enjoy the surrounding to cholatse lake. Spend the night resting and reflecting on the incredible milestone you’ve just reached.

• Trek Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
• Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Cho La Pass (5,420m /17,782ft)

Today marks a challenging but rewarding day as you cross the Cho La Pass, one of the highest points on this trek at 5,420 meters. The pass is known for its steep ascent and rough terrain, with loose rocks and snow that can make the hike difficult. However, the views from the top are more than worth the effort, with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, glaciers, and valleys. The crossing is demanding and requires careful attention to your footing, especially in areas with snow and ice.

Once you’ve crossed the pass, descend into the valley below and continue your trek toward Thagnak. You'll be able to enjoy the incredible view of the Ngozumpa Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in the Himalayas. The settlement is small and peaceful, providing a perfect stopover for the night. Relax at a cozy teahouse lodge

• Trek Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
• Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Gokyo (4,800m /15,748ft)

This is a day filled with excitement as you make your way toward the legendary Gokyo Lakes. The trail ascends gradually as you leave Thagnak behind, offering increasingly magnificent views of the peaks around you. As you approach the Gokyo Valley, the sight of the turquoise lakes, set against the backdrop of towering snow-covered mountains, will take your breath away. The Gokyo Lakes are considered some of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes in the world, and their pristine beauty makes for a perfect stopping point.

Upon reaching Gokyo, a small settlement at the edge of the third lake, you will be greeted by one of the best views of the surrounding peaks, including Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Mount Everest itself. Spend the night in a luxurious lodge, which provides comfort at high altitudes. After dinner, take a moment to relax, appreciating the serene beauty of the Gokyo Valley.

• Trek Distance: 2 km (1.2 miles)
• Trek Duration/ Flight Duration: 3-4 hours / 20- 30 minutes
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Highest Altitude: Gokyo Ri (5,357m /17,575ft)

Today is a highlight of the trek as you climb Gokyo Ri, a peak that stands at 5,357 meters and offers one of the most stunning panoramic views of the Everest region. The climb is challenging, but the effort will be rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree view of the surrounding peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. On a clear day, the view is unparalleled, making this one of the most memorable experiences of your trek.

Afterward, descend back to Gokyo and you will be heading to Lukla by helicopter for thrilling and memorable flight. Where you can see panoramic view of mountain ranges.

• Flight Distance: 138 km (86 miles)
• Flight Duration: 25-30 minutes
• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch &Dinner
• Altitude: Kathmandu (1,400m/ 4,600ft)

Weather permitting, you’ll take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu, once again enjoying the mountain views from above. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where a hot shower, comfortable bed, and modern conveniences await.

The rest of the day is yours to relax, explore the city, or shop for souvenirs. You may want to visit nearby cultural sites, enjoy a spa treatment, or indulge in a celebratory dinner with your fellow trekkers.

• Drive Duration: 30-45 minutes
• Meal: Breakfast
• Altitude: Kathmandu (1,400m/ 4,600ft)

Your final day in Nepal begins with a mix of emotions — a sense of fulfillment from completing one of the world’s most iconic treks, and a tinge of sadness as the adventure comes to an end. After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll have some time to soak in the last moments of Kathmandu’s eclectic charm. If your flight schedule permits, consider a brief morning walk through the nearby markets, where incense wafts through the air and local vendors begin their daily hustle. You might pick up a few final souvenirs — handwoven pashminas, Himalayan tea, or prayer flags to take a piece of Nepal back home with you.

As you’re transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport, your mind will likely replay the vivid memories of the past two weeks: the thunderous sound of glacial rivers, the soft flutter of prayer flags strung across mountain passes, and the overwhelming serenity of standing beneath the towering peaks of the Himalayas. You’ll remember the faces of kind-hearted Sherpas, the warmth of teahouse fires, and the camaraderie built among your fellow trekkers through shared challenges and triumphs.

This departure doesn’t just mark the end of a journey — it symbolizes something deeper. You’ve ventured into the heart of the world’s highest mountains, tested your endurance, and gained perspective that only such vast and timeless landscapes can offer. Whether you return one day or not, a part of you will always remain in the Himalayas — in the wind that whispers through Tengboche’s pine forests, in the crunch of snow beneath your boots at Base Camp, and in the boundless sky above Kala Patthar.

With a heart full of gratitude and a soul forever changed, you’ll bid farewell to Nepal — for now. Namaste and safe travels, until the mountains call you again.