Talk To An Expert ( Prakash Lamsal )
Talk To An Expert ( Prakash Lamsal )
Everest Base Camp Trek Experience with Gokyo Valley & Cho La Pass – Guided by Mr. Prakash Lamsal
On 10th October 2024, we began the Everest Base Camp Trek, and it's an unforgettable journey toward the Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) — the foot of the tallest mountain on Earth, Mount Everest (8,848.86 m). This was not just any trek; it was my 17th time leading an expedition as a Senior Trekking Guide (Captain Guide) for Nepal Himalayas Trekking Company. Our adventure was made even more special by the vibrant group of 24 French tourists from Réunion Island, led by their team leader, Mr. Gerard, along with my two capable assistant guides — Mr. Thakur Adhikari and Mr. Dasharath Adhikari.
Our Everest Base Camp Trek original plan was to take a thrilling mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860 m) — the gateway to Everest. However, the Himalayas had other plans. Due to poor weather, flights were canceled, and we waited at Kathmandu Domestic Airport until 10:00 AM before deciding to take the overland route.
We rented four Jeeps and began a 9–10-hour drive toward Phaplu (Salleri). Because of the late start, we reached between 10:00–11:00 PM, exhausted but determined. No one had the energy for a full dinner; we settled for hot noodle soup and shared a single lodge room — 24 French trekkers and 3 Nepali guides under one roof.
On the crisp morning of 11th October, our expedition woke to the quiet air of Phaplu (2,413 m), still determined despite the challenges from the previous day’s weather delays. Our next goal was to push deeper into the Everest region — but the first obstacle was finding transportation. The entire area was swarming with trekkers and guides who, like us, had been forced to abandon their Kathmandu–Lukla flight plans. Every available Jeep was in high demand, and securing one felt like winning a small victory.
For several hours, I moved from one lodge to another, speaking with drivers, negotiating prices, and coordinating with local transport operators. By 11:00 AM, after a great deal of persistence, I finally managed to arrange four sturdy Jeeps for our group of 24 French trekkers, my two assistant guides, and myself. It was a relief, but I knew the day’s challenge had only just begun.
The bumpy road journey took us through winding mountain tracks, past terraced fields, rhododendron groves, and small Sherpa hamlets. The smell of fresh pine filled the air, and every bend in the road revealed a new slice of the Himalayan foothills. By 2:00 PM, we reached Khari Khola (2,040 m) — a bustling village that serves as a gateway for those trekking in from lower Solukhumbu. Here, we paused to stretch our legs before continuing a short distance to Bupsa (2,300 m) for a much-needed lunch.
After refueling with warm dal bhat and tea, our real trekking adventure began. From Bupsa, the trail wound upward into lush green hills, crossing cascading streams and narrow suspension bridges swaying gently above the valleys. The humid air carried the scent of wet earth, a reminder that the region had just endured several days of rain. Our porters skillfully navigated the muddy paths, carrying the group’s gear with quiet strength.
As the day wore on, the sun dipped lower behind the ridgelines, casting long shadows over the trail. We pushed on toward Paiya (2,730 m), knowing we were running late. The final stretch tested everyone’s endurance — steep climbs in fading daylight, careful footing on slippery paths, and the mental challenge of trekking into the night.
By the time we strapped on our headlamps, darkness had fully enveloped the mountains. The quiet of the night was broken only by the rhythmic crunch of boots on the trail and the soft rustle of the forest. Finally, at 10:00 PM, after an exhausting yet rewarding day, we arrived in Paiya. The village lights glowed warmly in the distance, a welcome sight after hours of uphill trekking.
Though tired, there was a sense of accomplishment among the group. We had faced logistical hurdles, long travel hours, and a late-night trek — but this was the true beginning of our journey to Everest Base Camp. The adventure had well and truly begun.
12th October 2024 marked an important stage of our journey as we set off from Paiya toward Phakding (2,610 m), making our way through the picturesque Sherpa heartland. The trail led us across rolling hills, suspension bridges, and through charming villages like Chaurikharka, where traditional stone houses stood against a backdrop of misty mountains. Prayer flags fluttered in the breeze, and the distant echo of bells from yak caravans filled the air, adding to the authentic Himalayan atmosphere.
However, the beauty of the route was matched by its challenge. The first few days of our trek had been marked by relentless rain, and that morning was no different. Trails were slippery and muddy, small streams had swelled from the downpour, and visibility was often reduced to the path right in front of us. Ponchos and raincoats became our most valuable companions, shielding us from the cold drizzle as we carefully navigated each ascent and descent. Despite the weather, the group pressed on with determination, helping one another through difficult stretches and keeping spirits high with shared laughter and songs.
By mid-afternoon, as if rewarding our persistence, the skies began to open. The clouds drifted apart, and a gentle light spread across the valley. Then came the moment that every trekker dreams of — through a gap in the clouds, we caught our first glimpse of Mount Everest in the distance. Towering, majestic, and snow-clad, its presence was both humbling and electrifying. Cameras came out instantly, and some simply stood still, taking in the sight in reverent silence. It was a moment of pure magic, where fatigue melted away, replaced by excitement and awe.
That day’s trek, though challenging, became unforgettable — not just for the hardships we endured, but for the reward of seeing the top of the world for the very first time.
This was truly one of the most thrilling and memorable days of our trek. From early morning, the group set out along the winding trails of the Khumbu region, surrounded by dense pine forests and the distant silhouettes of snow-capped peaks. We crossed several high suspension bridges, swaying gently above the roaring Dudh Koshi River, feeling both exhilarated and humbled by the sheer beauty and power of the Himalayan landscape.
As we progressed, the trail led us deeper into the heart of Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich biodiversity, stunning mountain vistas, and unique Sherpa culture. Towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and the occasional grazing yak reminded us that we were truly in one of the most pristine wilderness areas in the world.
The highlight of the day was the famous steep ascent to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m). This bustling Sherpa town is often called the gateway to Everest, and its lively streets, local markets, and colorful prayer flags welcomed us with a vibrant mix of culture and tradition. The climb was physically demanding, but the excitement of finally reaching Namche, combined with the panoramic views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kongde Ri, made every step worthwhile. By the time we arrived, our group was filled with a deep sense of achievement and anticipation for the adventures that lay ahead in the Everest region.
Acclimatization is crucial at high altitudes, so we spent the day exploring. We hiked to the Everest View Hotel (3,880 m), where we saw the peaks of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku, and even spotted the route toward Gokyo Valley.
That’s when we decided to change our original itinerary — instead of heading directly to Everest Base Camp, we would take the Gokyo Valley + Cho La Pass route for an even richer experience.
The trail grew quieter, with fewer trekkers. We stayed one night each in Dole and Machhermo, enjoying breathtaking views and peaceful mountain landscapes.
We spent two nights in Gokyo Village, nestled beside turquoise lakes and surrounded by Himalayan giants. The highlight was the sunrise hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) — a 360° panorama of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier.
The group was ecstatic — thrilled, overjoyed, and moved to tears by the beauty.
Two trekkers decided to return to Namche with a Sherpa guide. The remaining 22 continued with me toward Cho La Pass.
We trekked to Thangnak, where one member, Asma, developed severe altitude sickness. I arranged a helicopter evacuation via Manang Air. Her close friend joined her back to Kathmandu.
The next morning, my assistant guides led the group from 4:30 AM toward Cho La Pass, while I waited for the helicopter, which arrived at 7:45 AM. After seeing them off, I hurried to catch up with the group, meeting them near the top of the Cho La Pass (5,420 m).
We descended to Dzongla for lunch. Two trekkers, Mr. Jean-François Suzanne (Yasod) and his friend, were too exhausted to continue, so they stayed the night there while the rest pushed to Lobuche.
From Lobuche, another member fell seriously ill with dangerously low oxygen levels. I sourced an oxygen cylinder at NR 15,000 per hour and arranged another helicopter rescue.
After she was safely evacuated, I continued to Gorak Shep, met the group for lunch, and then we trekked 3 hours round trip to Everest Base Camp. The moment was pure magic — tears, laughter, and the awe of standing at the foot of the world’s highest mountain.
Before sunrise, we hiked up Kala Patthar, witnessing golden light bathing Everest. After breakfast, we descended to Pheriche, meeting the two trekkers who had stayed in Dzongla earlier.
We trekked down to Namche Bazaar, where the group celebrated with massages, laundry, and a well-earned drink. The final trekking day took us to Lukla, where the French group hosted a farewell dinner — complete with whiskey, Sherpa toasts, and shared laughter.
We flew early to Ramechhap Airport, then drove 4–5 hours back to Kathmandu, completing an epic 14-day trekking journey.
The Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Valley & Cho La Pass was a fantastic, incredible, and unforgettable lifetime experience. We faced delays, rain, altitude sickness, and tough climbs, but also shared songs, dances, tears, and triumphs.
The journey offered more than just mountains — we experienced Sherpa culture, Himalayan wildlife, pine forests, yaks, blue sheep (Naur), and endless hospitality.
As Mr. Prakash Lamsal and the Nepal Himalayas Trekking family, I wholeheartedly recommend that before you leave this Earth, witness the Everest region,
Whether the classic EBC Trek route,
Everest Base Camp Luxury Trek,
Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return or the Gokyo Valley + Cho La Pass adventure.
Distance: ~200 km by road
Walking Hours: Minimal, mostly drive
Description: Our trek started on 10th October 2024, but due to bad weather, flights to Lukla were canceled. Waiting at Kathmandu Domestic Airport until 10:00 AM, we opted for a road journey. We rented 4 Jeeps and drove through winding Himalayan roads for 9–10 hours, passing terraced fields, rivers, and small villages, finally reaching Phaplu (2,413 m) late at night. Exhausted, we enjoyed simple noodle soup and rested in shared lodge rooms.
Note: This is my Everest Base Camp Trek Experience with the 24 pax of French Tourists in October 2024. However, nowadays, if you prefer to follow the Everest Base Camp Trek by Road, then you can drive from Kathmandu to Paiya or Surke directly within a 1-day or 2-day. Then can deduct 1/2 days and make it a tailor-made Itinerary
Distance: ~25 km
Walking Hours: ~6–7 hours
Description: On 11th October, after arranging Jeeps at 11:00 AM, we reached Khari Khola (2,040 m) for a short break and then had lunch at Bupsa (2,300 m). From there, we started trekking through lush forests, muddy trails, and suspension bridges, gradually ascending to Paiya (2,730 m). The day was long, ending around 10:00 PM, but marked the true beginning of our Everest adventure.
Note: This is my Everest Base Camp Trek Experience with the 24 pax of French Tourists in October 2024. However, nowadays, if you prefer to follow the Everest Base Camp Trek by Road, then you can drive from Kathmandu to Paiya or Surke directly within a 1-day or 2-day. Then can deduct 1/2 days and make it a tailor-made Itinerary
Distance: ~10 km
Walking Hours: ~5–6 hours
Description: On 12th October, we trekked through Sherpa villages like Chaurikharka, crossing small streams and rolling hills. Rain and muddy trails made the trek challenging, but mid-afternoon clouds cleared to reveal our first view of Mount Everest. Despite slippery paths, the group felt exhilarated and motivated by the Himalayan scenery.
Distance: ~12 km
Walking Hours: ~6–7 hours
Description: This day was thrilling and memorable. Trekking along the Dudh Koshi River, we crossed high suspension bridges and entered Sagarmatha National Park. Towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and grazing yaks added to the experience. The steep final ascent brought us to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), the vibrant Sherpa town, with panoramic views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kongde Ri.
Distance: ~5 km (hiking for acclimatization)
Walking Hours: ~3–4 hours
Description: We spent the day acclimatizing, hiking to the Everest View Hotel (3,880 m). The views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku were breathtaking. Observing the Gokyo Valley route, we decided to alter our trek, opting for the Gokyo Valley + Cho La Pass route for a more scenic adventure.
Distance: ~10 km
Walking Hours: ~6–7 hours
Description: Leaving Namche, we entered quieter trails surrounded by rhododendron forests and isolated villages. Dole (4,200 m) offered a peaceful night with panoramic mountain views and a sense of remoteness.
Distance: ~8 km
Walking Hours: ~5–6 hours
Description: The trail gradually ascended to Machhermo (4,470 m). Views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks were spectacular, and the group enjoyed a calm evening preparing for the high-altitude trek ahead.
Distance: ~10 km
Walking Hours: ~5–6 hours
Description: We reached Gokyo Village, nestled beside turquoise lakes with the mighty Himalayan peaks in the background. This peaceful village provided a perfect base for acclimatization and exploration.
Distance: ~8 km round trip
Walking Hours: ~5–6 hours
Description: A sunrise hike to Gokyo Ri rewarded the group with 360° panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the Ngozumpa Glacier. The breathtaking scenery left the group ecstatic and created an unforgettable Himalayan experience. Two members returned to Namche with a Sherpa guide; the remaining 22 continued toward Cho La Pass.
Distance: ~12 km
Walking Hours: ~6–7 hours
Description: The trail ascended steadily to Thangnak (4,700 m). Unfortunately, one trekker, Asma, developed severe altitude sickness and required a helicopter evacuation. Her close friend accompanied her to Kathmandu. The remaining group prepared for the early morning ascent to Cho La Pass
Enjoy the popular trekking and tour packages in Nepal Himalayas. 2025.
Everest Base Camp Trek Experience with Gokyo Valley & Cho La Pass – Guided by Mr. Prakash Lamsal
On 10th October 2024, we began the Everest Base Camp Trek, and it's an unforgettable journey toward the Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) — the foot of the tallest mountain on Earth, Mount Everest (8,848.86 m). This was not just any trek; it was my 17th time leading an expedition as a Senior Trekking Guide (Captain Guide) for Nepal Himalayas Trekking Company. Our adventure was made even more special by the vibrant group of 24 French tourists from Réunion Island, led by their team leader, Mr. Gerard, along with my two capable assistant guides — Mr. Thakur Adhikari and Mr. Dasharath Adhikari.
Our Everest Base Camp Trek original plan was to take a thrilling mountain flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860 m) — the gateway to Everest. However, the Himalayas had other plans. Due to poor weather, flights were canceled, and we waited at Kathmandu Domestic Airport until 10:00 AM before deciding to take the overland route.
We rented four Jeeps and began a 9–10-hour drive toward Phaplu (Salleri). Because of the late start, we reached between 10:00–11:00 PM, exhausted but determined. No one had the energy for a full dinner; we settled for hot noodle soup and shared a single lodge room — 24 French trekkers and 3 Nepali guides under one roof.
On the crisp morning of 11th October, our expedition woke to the quiet air of Phaplu (2,413 m), still determined despite the challenges from the previous day’s weather delays. Our next goal was to push deeper into the Everest region — but the first obstacle was finding transportation. The entire area was swarming with trekkers and guides who, like us, had been forced to abandon their Kathmandu–Lukla flight plans. Every available Jeep was in high demand, and securing one felt like winning a small victory.
For several hours, I moved from one lodge to another, speaking with drivers, negotiating prices, and coordinating with local transport operators. By 11:00 AM, after a great deal of persistence, I finally managed to arrange four sturdy Jeeps for our group of 24 French trekkers, my two assistant guides, and myself. It was a relief, but I knew the day’s challenge had only just begun.
The bumpy road journey took us through winding mountain tracks, past terraced fields, rhododendron groves, and small Sherpa hamlets. The smell of fresh pine filled the air, and every bend in the road revealed a new slice of the Himalayan foothills. By 2:00 PM, we reached Khari Khola (2,040 m) — a bustling village that serves as a gateway for those trekking in from lower Solukhumbu. Here, we paused to stretch our legs before continuing a short distance to Bupsa (2,300 m) for a much-needed lunch.
After refueling with warm dal bhat and tea, our real trekking adventure began. From Bupsa, the trail wound upward into lush green hills, crossing cascading streams and narrow suspension bridges swaying gently above the valleys. The humid air carried the scent of wet earth, a reminder that the region had just endured several days of rain. Our porters skillfully navigated the muddy paths, carrying the group’s gear with quiet strength.
As the day wore on, the sun dipped lower behind the ridgelines, casting long shadows over the trail. We pushed on toward Paiya (2,730 m), knowing we were running late. The final stretch tested everyone’s endurance — steep climbs in fading daylight, careful footing on slippery paths, and the mental challenge of trekking into the night.
By the time we strapped on our headlamps, darkness had fully enveloped the mountains. The quiet of the night was broken only by the rhythmic crunch of boots on the trail and the soft rustle of the forest. Finally, at 10:00 PM, after an exhausting yet rewarding day, we arrived in Paiya. The village lights glowed warmly in the distance, a welcome sight after hours of uphill trekking.
Though tired, there was a sense of accomplishment among the group. We had faced logistical hurdles, long travel hours, and a late-night trek — but this was the true beginning of our journey to Everest Base Camp. The adventure had well and truly begun.
12th October 2024 marked an important stage of our journey as we set off from Paiya toward Phakding (2,610 m), making our way through the picturesque Sherpa heartland. The trail led us across rolling hills, suspension bridges, and through charming villages like Chaurikharka, where traditional stone houses stood against a backdrop of misty mountains. Prayer flags fluttered in the breeze, and the distant echo of bells from yak caravans filled the air, adding to the authentic Himalayan atmosphere.
However, the beauty of the route was matched by its challenge. The first few days of our trek had been marked by relentless rain, and that morning was no different. Trails were slippery and muddy, small streams had swelled from the downpour, and visibility was often reduced to the path right in front of us. Ponchos and raincoats became our most valuable companions, shielding us from the cold drizzle as we carefully navigated each ascent and descent. Despite the weather, the group pressed on with determination, helping one another through difficult stretches and keeping spirits high with shared laughter and songs.
By mid-afternoon, as if rewarding our persistence, the skies began to open. The clouds drifted apart, and a gentle light spread across the valley. Then came the moment that every trekker dreams of — through a gap in the clouds, we caught our first glimpse of Mount Everest in the distance. Towering, majestic, and snow-clad, its presence was both humbling and electrifying. Cameras came out instantly, and some simply stood still, taking in the sight in reverent silence. It was a moment of pure magic, where fatigue melted away, replaced by excitement and awe.
That day’s trek, though challenging, became unforgettable — not just for the hardships we endured, but for the reward of seeing the top of the world for the very first time.
This was truly one of the most thrilling and memorable days of our trek. From early morning, the group set out along the winding trails of the Khumbu region, surrounded by dense pine forests and the distant silhouettes of snow-capped peaks. We crossed several high suspension bridges, swaying gently above the roaring Dudh Koshi River, feeling both exhilarated and humbled by the sheer beauty and power of the Himalayan landscape.
As we progressed, the trail led us deeper into the heart of Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich biodiversity, stunning mountain vistas, and unique Sherpa culture. Towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and the occasional grazing yak reminded us that we were truly in one of the most pristine wilderness areas in the world.
The highlight of the day was the famous steep ascent to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m). This bustling Sherpa town is often called the gateway to Everest, and its lively streets, local markets, and colorful prayer flags welcomed us with a vibrant mix of culture and tradition. The climb was physically demanding, but the excitement of finally reaching Namche, combined with the panoramic views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kongde Ri, made every step worthwhile. By the time we arrived, our group was filled with a deep sense of achievement and anticipation for the adventures that lay ahead in the Everest region.
Acclimatization is crucial at high altitudes, so we spent the day exploring. We hiked to the Everest View Hotel (3,880 m), where we saw the peaks of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku, and even spotted the route toward Gokyo Valley.
That’s when we decided to change our original itinerary — instead of heading directly to Everest Base Camp, we would take the Gokyo Valley + Cho La Pass route for an even richer experience.
The trail grew quieter, with fewer trekkers. We stayed one night each in Dole and Machhermo, enjoying breathtaking views and peaceful mountain landscapes.
We spent two nights in Gokyo Village, nestled beside turquoise lakes and surrounded by Himalayan giants. The highlight was the sunrise hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) — a 360° panorama of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the vast Ngozumpa Glacier.
The group was ecstatic — thrilled, overjoyed, and moved to tears by the beauty.
Two trekkers decided to return to Namche with a Sherpa guide. The remaining 22 continued with me toward Cho La Pass.
We trekked to Thangnak, where one member, Asma, developed severe altitude sickness. I arranged a helicopter evacuation via Manang Air. Her close friend joined her back to Kathmandu.
The next morning, my assistant guides led the group from 4:30 AM toward Cho La Pass, while I waited for the helicopter, which arrived at 7:45 AM. After seeing them off, I hurried to catch up with the group, meeting them near the top of the Cho La Pass (5,420 m).
We descended to Dzongla for lunch. Two trekkers, Mr. Jean-François Suzanne (Yasod) and his friend, were too exhausted to continue, so they stayed the night there while the rest pushed to Lobuche.
From Lobuche, another member fell seriously ill with dangerously low oxygen levels. I sourced an oxygen cylinder at NR 15,000 per hour and arranged another helicopter rescue.
After she was safely evacuated, I continued to Gorak Shep, met the group for lunch, and then we trekked 3 hours round trip to Everest Base Camp. The moment was pure magic — tears, laughter, and the awe of standing at the foot of the world’s highest mountain.
Before sunrise, we hiked up Kala Patthar, witnessing golden light bathing Everest. After breakfast, we descended to Pheriche, meeting the two trekkers who had stayed in Dzongla earlier.
We trekked down to Namche Bazaar, where the group celebrated with massages, laundry, and a well-earned drink. The final trekking day took us to Lukla, where the French group hosted a farewell dinner — complete with whiskey, Sherpa toasts, and shared laughter.
We flew early to Ramechhap Airport, then drove 4–5 hours back to Kathmandu, completing an epic 14-day trekking journey.
The Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Valley & Cho La Pass was a fantastic, incredible, and unforgettable lifetime experience. We faced delays, rain, altitude sickness, and tough climbs, but also shared songs, dances, tears, and triumphs.
The journey offered more than just mountains — we experienced Sherpa culture, Himalayan wildlife, pine forests, yaks, blue sheep (Naur), and endless hospitality.
As Mr. Prakash Lamsal and the Nepal Himalayas Trekking family, I wholeheartedly recommend that before you leave this Earth, witness the Everest region,
Whether the classic EBC Trek route,
Everest Base Camp Luxury Trek,
Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return or the Gokyo Valley + Cho La Pass adventure.
Distance: ~200 km by road
Walking Hours: Minimal, mostly drive
Description: Our trek started on 10th October 2024, but due to bad weather, flights to Lukla were canceled. Waiting at Kathmandu Domestic Airport until 10:00 AM, we opted for a road journey. We rented 4 Jeeps and drove through winding Himalayan roads for 9–10 hours, passing terraced fields, rivers, and small villages, finally reaching Phaplu (2,413 m) late at night. Exhausted, we enjoyed simple noodle soup and rested in shared lodge rooms.
Note: This is my Everest Base Camp Trek Experience with the 24 pax of French Tourists in October 2024. However, nowadays, if you prefer to follow the Everest Base Camp Trek by Road, then you can drive from Kathmandu to Paiya or Surke directly within a 1-day or 2-day. Then can deduct 1/2 days and make it a tailor-made Itinerary
Distance: ~25 km
Walking Hours: ~6–7 hours
Description: On 11th October, after arranging Jeeps at 11:00 AM, we reached Khari Khola (2,040 m) for a short break and then had lunch at Bupsa (2,300 m). From there, we started trekking through lush forests, muddy trails, and suspension bridges, gradually ascending to Paiya (2,730 m). The day was long, ending around 10:00 PM, but marked the true beginning of our Everest adventure.
Note: This is my Everest Base Camp Trek Experience with the 24 pax of French Tourists in October 2024. However, nowadays, if you prefer to follow the Everest Base Camp Trek by Road, then you can drive from Kathmandu to Paiya or Surke directly within a 1-day or 2-day. Then can deduct 1/2 days and make it a tailor-made Itinerary
Distance: ~10 km
Walking Hours: ~5–6 hours
Description: On 12th October, we trekked through Sherpa villages like Chaurikharka, crossing small streams and rolling hills. Rain and muddy trails made the trek challenging, but mid-afternoon clouds cleared to reveal our first view of Mount Everest. Despite slippery paths, the group felt exhilarated and motivated by the Himalayan scenery.
Distance: ~12 km
Walking Hours: ~6–7 hours
Description: This day was thrilling and memorable. Trekking along the Dudh Koshi River, we crossed high suspension bridges and entered Sagarmatha National Park. Towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and grazing yaks added to the experience. The steep final ascent brought us to Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), the vibrant Sherpa town, with panoramic views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Kongde Ri.
Distance: ~5 km (hiking for acclimatization)
Walking Hours: ~3–4 hours
Description: We spent the day acclimatizing, hiking to the Everest View Hotel (3,880 m). The views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku were breathtaking. Observing the Gokyo Valley route, we decided to alter our trek, opting for the Gokyo Valley + Cho La Pass route for a more scenic adventure.
Distance: ~10 km
Walking Hours: ~6–7 hours
Description: Leaving Namche, we entered quieter trails surrounded by rhododendron forests and isolated villages. Dole (4,200 m) offered a peaceful night with panoramic mountain views and a sense of remoteness.
Distance: ~8 km
Walking Hours: ~5–6 hours
Description: The trail gradually ascended to Machhermo (4,470 m). Views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks were spectacular, and the group enjoyed a calm evening preparing for the high-altitude trek ahead.
Distance: ~10 km
Walking Hours: ~5–6 hours
Description: We reached Gokyo Village, nestled beside turquoise lakes with the mighty Himalayan peaks in the background. This peaceful village provided a perfect base for acclimatization and exploration.
Distance: ~8 km round trip
Walking Hours: ~5–6 hours
Description: A sunrise hike to Gokyo Ri rewarded the group with 360° panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and the Ngozumpa Glacier. The breathtaking scenery left the group ecstatic and created an unforgettable Himalayan experience. Two members returned to Namche with a Sherpa guide; the remaining 22 continued toward Cho La Pass.
Distance: ~12 km
Walking Hours: ~6–7 hours
Description: The trail ascended steadily to Thangnak (4,700 m). Unfortunately, one trekker, Asma, developed severe altitude sickness and required a helicopter evacuation. Her close friend accompanied her to Kathmandu. The remaining group prepared for the early morning ascent to Cho La Pass
