
Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Tour By Heli-17 Days
Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with our Everest Base Camp Trek Via Chola Pass. From the vibrant streets of Kathmandu to the serene beauty of the Himalayas, this journey promises unforgettable memories and unparalleled experiences.
Nepal
17 Days
Moderate + Demanding
5,545m/18,193ft
Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Hotels & Teahouses
Included
Kathmandu
Trip Highlights
- Begin your journey with a visit to the sacred Swayambhunath stupa overlooking Kathmandu Valley.
- Fly into the dramatic mountain airstrip of Lukla and follow ancient trails through the heart of Sherpa country.
- Stand at the foot of Mount Everest, walking along the glacier to reach Everest Base Camp.
- Watch the sunrise over Everest and Lhotse from Kala Patthar, one of the finest viewpoints in the Himalayas.
- Cross the high and rugged Cho La Pass into the quiet, icy beauty of the Gokyo Valley.
- Take in sweeping views from Gokyo Ri before flying out by helicopter, ending the trek in true style.
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The Everest Base Camp-Chola Pass-Gokyo Trek offers a thrilling adventure through the Khumbu region. Starting with a flight to Lukla, you’ll trek through Sherpa villages to Everest Base Camp, enjoying stunning views of iconic peaks. The trek continues via Cho La Pass to Gokyo Valley, where you’ll be mesmerized by Himalayan panoramas and the beauty of Gokyo Ri. Finally, you’ll descend back to Lukla, concluding an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Everest region. As part of the plan, a helicopter ride back from Gokyo is included, providing a scenic and convenient way to return to Lukla.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m/4,429 ft)
- Day 2: Swayambhunath tour and trip preparation (1,350 m/4,429 ft)
- Day 3: Flight to Lukla, Trek to Phakding (2,800 m/9,187 ft): 3-4 hrs
- Day 4: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,438 m/11,280 ft): 5-6 hrs
- Day 5: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar (3,438 m/11,280 ft)
- Day 6: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,870 m/12,697 ft): 5-6 hrs
- Day 7: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,360 m/14,305 ft): 5-6 hrs
- Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche
- Day 9: Dingboche to Lobuche (4,900 m/15,093 ft): 4-5 hrs
- Day 10: Lobuche to Gorak Shep, Visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m/17,599 ft): 6-7 hrs
- Day 11: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar, then to Lobuche (5,545 m/18,193 ft): 8-9 hrs
- Day 12: Lobuche to Dzongla (4,830 m/15,847 ft): 3-4 hrs
- Day 13: Dzongla to Thangnak via Cho La Pass (5,420 m/17,782 ft): 8 hrs
- Day 14: Trek to Gokyo (4,800 m/15,748 ft): 5 hrs
- Day 15: Gokyo Ri Ascent and Helicopter Back to Lukla (2,800 m/9,187 ft)
- Day 16: Lukla to Kathmandu- Morning Flight & Free Day
- Day 17: Final Departure
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m/4,429 ft)
Upon arrival at the airport, we will be welcomed by a representative of Ama Adventure. Check into a hotel and then explore the surrounding area.
Max Altitude
: Kathmandu (1,350 m/4,429 ft)
Overnight
: Kathmandu
Accomodation
: Hotel
Day 2: Swayambhunath tour and trip preparation (1,350 m/4,429 ft)
After breakfast, you will head towards Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple. Perched atop a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley, this ancient stupa is one of the most iconic landmarks of Nepal. Believed to have been self-created, it holds deep spiritual significance for both Buddhists and Hindus. From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the valley, surrounded by prayer flags, shrines, and playful monkeys that give the site its nickname.
Max Altitude
: Kathmandu (1,350 m/4,429 ft)
Meals
: Breakfast
Overnight
: Kathmandu
Accomodation
: Hotel
Day 3: Flight to Lukla, Trek to Phakding (2,800 m/9,187 ft): 3-4 hrs
Early morning, set off on a scenic drive to Ramechhap, which typically takes around 3-4 hours. This early departure ensures you reach Ramechhap in time for your flight. Keep in mind that while flights to Lukla typically depart from Kathmandu, all domestic flights are redirected to Ramechhap during April to May and October to November. Prepare for a swift and tranquil start to catch your flight amidst this picturesque setting. The trek to Phakding village has to pass typical Sherpa villages, farmland, Buddhist chorten and incredible view of Kumbila and Kusum Kanguru peak. We walk on the bank of Dudh Koshi Rivers crossing multiple suspension bridges. After a few hours of walk, arrive at Phakding. Overnight in Phakding.
Travelled Distance
: 8 km/ 5 miles
Max Altitude
: Namche Bazaar (3,440 m / 11,286 ft)
Trip Duration
: 5-6 hrs
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight
: Phakding
Accomodation
: Teahouse
Day 4: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,438 m/11,280 ft): 5-6 hrs
Our trail passes through a pine forest and we continue our walk on the trail that goes north up the Benkar valley. We cross Dudh Koshi River and pass Chumoa and Monjo villages before reaching the entrance of the Everest National Park. Then after crossing a suspension bridge, we pass Jorsale village and walk alongside Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers. We ascend on a steep trail and reach Namche Bazaar which is probably the biggest town in the Everest region. Overnight in Namche Bazaar.
Max Altitude
: Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
Trip Duration
: 5-6 hrs trek
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight
: Namche Bazaar
Accomodation
: Teahouse
Day 5: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar (3,438 m/11,280 ft)
Namche Bazaar is the primary administrative town of Khumbu region with all facilities. For Acclimatization, we hike up to Sagarmatha National Park to enjoy the spectacular view of (Chomolumba) Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, Kongde, and many more. To adjust with the altitude, we climb a little bit more, and rest before the next ascent you can spend your day hiking to Everest viewpoint. Another great option can also trek to Khumjung to explore Monastery, Yeti Skul. After lunch return to Namche Bazar,
Max Altitude
: Namche Bazaar (3,440 m), Hotel Everest View Hotel (3,880 m)
Trip Duration
: 4-5 hrs trek
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Overnight
: Namche Bazaar
Accomodation
: Teahouse
Day 6: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3,870 m/12,697 ft): 5-6 hrs
The day begins by passing through beautiful rhododendron forest. Descent to the Dudhkoshi River and equally popular ascent through rhododendron forest to Tengboche. Tengboche village is famous for Monastery along with panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. Upon arrival in Tengboche, we hike to the Monastery to join the Buddhist religious performance. Overnight at Tengboche.
Max Altitude
: Tengboche (3,860 m)
Trip Duration
: 5-6 hrs
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight
: Tengboche
Accomodation
: Teahouse
Day 7: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,360 m/14,305 ft): 5-6 hrs
Today we will start the trek through the incredible Rhododendron forest that looks amazing during spring when it starts blooming. We cross the suspension bridge above the Dudh Kosi River and continue to Pangboche. After lunch, trail cross the Lobuche river then turn right to Imja river valley. Dingboche is a small beautiful village with a farm of barley, potato, and buckwheat fields complete with animals grazing along the bank of Imjakhola. Overnight at Dingboche.
Max Altitude
: Namche Bazaar (3,440 m)
Trip Duration
: 5-6 hrs
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight
: Dingboche
Accomodation
: Teahouse
Day 8: Acclimatization Day in Dingboche
After breakfast we will climb North West above the villages to acclimate. The view points offer the mesmerizing view of world highest peaks including Makalu, Lhotse, and others popular mountains like Amadablam. It is great to witness the sunrays across the Imjakhola river valley over the Himalayas. After amazing hike back to hotel for lunch.
Max Altitude
: Nangkartsang Peak (5,083 m)
Trip Duration
: 4-5 hrs hike
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight
: Dingboche
Accomodation
: Teahouse
Day 9: Dingboche to Lobuche (4,900 m/15,093 ft): 4-5 hrs
Above the tree line, we trek across a wider valley pass walking in the straight line but you can sense that the altitude has shifted. Moreover, continue your ascending towards Everest underwiring mountains. The valley starts to narrow and began to see Mt. Pumori as we continue our trail. The trail passes through a steep terminal moraine of the Khumbu glacier. Along the way to the top of the ridge is a field with prayer flags and stones that are memorial shrines for climbers who lost their lives during Everest expeditions. As we cross the Khumbu glacier we also can admire the view of Mt. Nuptse. Reaching Lobuche nestled high in the Himalaya, majority of trekkers stop along the trail to base camp. Through these challenging short days, take some much deserving rest and overnight at Lobuche.
Max Altitude
: Lobuche (4,900 m/15,093 ft)
Trip Duration
: 4-5 hrs trek
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight
: Lobuche
Accomodation
: Teahouse
Day 10: Lobuche to Gorak Shep, Visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m/17,599 ft): 6-7 hrs
Today after breakfast, we trek to Gorakshep then visit the Everest Base Camp through Khumbu glacier moraine. This trek offers the magnificent view of Mt Pumori, Linden, Khumche peak, Nuptse, Khumbu Icefall, and an amazing glacier structure. There are lots of narrow meandering of rough terrain, passing yak, and porters with loads on the trail please follow your leader’s instructions. After a couple of hours of ancient, there is a brief descent to reach the Gorakshep. After a short break, we will continue our journey to Everest Base camp which is the dream destination for those traveling in the Everest region. After an amazing time at the Base Camp, return to Gorakshep overnight.
Max Altitude
: Everest Base Camp (5,364 m/17,599 ft)
Trip Duration
: 6-7 hrs
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight
: Gorakshep
Accomodation
: Teahouse
Day 11: Gorak Shep to Kala Patthar, then to Lobuche (5,545 m/18,193 ft): 8-9 hrs
From Gorak Shep, we start the ascent to Kalapather early in the morning to catch the spectacular sunrise view over the Himalayas. As we expect, walking to Kalapather gives a stunning view of the World’s Highest Mountains along with many other mountain panoramas. After a couple of hours of climb, reach Kala Patthar (5,545m). The place offers an outstanding view of Mt Everest, Nuptse, Pumori, most popular Khumbu Icefall along with a memorable sunrise view above the Himalayas. We will spend about 15 minutes at the top, then return to Gorakhshep for breakfast. After breakfast continues descent Lobuche for overnight.
Max Altitude
: Kala Patthar (5,555 m)
Trip Duration
: 8-9 hrs
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight
: Lobuche
Accomodation
: Teahouse
Day 12: Lobuche to Dzongla (4,830 m/15,847 ft): 3-4 hrs
Today we trek to Dzongla on the side of the Glacial stream and the right side of the Kumbu Glacier moraine. Trek to Lobuche to Dzongla is a stunning Glacier of Looming Awi peak as well as a cross between a stupa and gravestone. After a couple of hours of walking in a gradual section, a trail gets stepper. Along the way, we can see Cholatse Lake from closer.The trails continue to the Small Lake then trek above the Cholakhola bridge. After an exciting day finally arrive at Dzongla overnight.
Max Altitude
: Dzongla (4,830 m/15,847 ft)
Trip Duration
: 3-4 hrs
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight
: Dzongla
Accomodation
: Teahouse
Day 13: Dzongla to Thangnak via Cho La Pass (5,420 m/17,782 ft): 8 hrs
Trek from Dzongla to Gokyo starts ascending steeply to the Chola Lakes. The hard effort is worthwhile as we ascend to the Chola lakes as the view of Ama Dablam along the mountain on the south as well as Chocolate seeing on the west side. The trail gets steeper due to the boulder we have to walk above the winding boulder. Before reaching the Chola Pass, climbing is much harder as the trail turns into a round loop breach gap. The top of the pass is decorated with faltering Buddhist flags as well as stone cranes along with blood-rushing mountains. After passing, we have a knee busting descent to Thangnak walk on the ridge of the Ngozumpa glacier that is the longest glacier in Nepal. When we turn to the other side of the glacier, we can see sets of the lakes after walking for a while to reach the third Gokyo Lake. After a long day, overnight at the teahouse.
Max Altitude
: Cho La Pass (5,420 m)
Trip Duration
: 8 hrs
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight
: Thangnak
Accomodation
: Teahouse
Day 14: Trek to Gokyo (4,800 m/15,748 ft): 5 hrs
Today’s trek takes us to one of our main destinations, Gokyo (4,800m). Allow time for sightseeing and hiking around the Gokyo area. The emerald beauty of Gokyo Lake takes your breath away.
Max Altitude
: Gokyo (4,800 m/15,748 ft)
Trip Duration
: 5 hrs
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Overnight
: Gokyo
Accomodation
: Teahouse
Day 15: Gokyo Ri Ascent and Helicopter Back to Lukla (2,800 m/9,187 ft)
Early in the morning, we have a steep climb up to the top of Gokyo Ri at an elevation of 5,483m, it is one of the best viewpoints in the Everest region.
There are ample rewards for those who attempt this trip- you get stunning views of the super Gokyo valley, the massive Ngozumpa glacier and an incredible panoramic view of the whole Khumbu Himalayas, including the giants Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cho-Oyu and Gychung Kang.
Catch all of this from an aerial view of everything you see from the helicopter ride, as you get closer to Lukla.
Max Altitude
: Gokyo Ri (5,483 m)
Trip Duration
: 5-6 hrs trek
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Overnight
: Lukla
Accomodation
: Teahouse
Day 16: Lukla to Kathmandu- Morning Flight & Free Day
After early breakfast, hoping to get an early flight back to Kathmandu, the flight from Lukla to Kathmandu takes 35 minutes. Then drive back to Kathmandu hotel normally it takes an hour or less. Check-in to Hotel and get a rest.
Max Altitude
: Kathmandu (1,350 m/4,429 ft)
Meals
: Breakfast
Overnight
: Kathmandu
Accomodation
: Hotel
Day 17: Final Departure
Today is the final day of our trip. Our representative drops you off at the airport, wishes you a safe journey, and hopes to see you on your next adventure.
Max Altitude
: Kathmandu (1,350 m/4,429 ft)
Meals
: Breakfast
Notes
We would like to notify you that even if clients fly from Gokyo, we still have to pay the full salary for the guide and porter. Additionally, one official photographer will be provided at the same cost.
Gallery
What is included //php the_title(); ?>
- Hotel In Kathmandu ( twin-shared based and BB Plan)
- Accommodation during the trek
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner during the trek
- Domestic flights (Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu)
- Permits and entry fees
- Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Permit
- Experienced trekking guide and porter services
- Airport transfers in Kathmandu
- One Professional Photographer
What is Excluded
- Trip cancellations cost
- International airfare and airport departure tax
- Travel and rescue insurance – Must include high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage
- Alcoholic beverages, cold drinks, and bottled juices
- Tips – For trekking staff and drivers (it is expected)
- Personal trekking gear and equipment
- Single room supplement – Available on request at an extra cost
- Any expenses not mentioned in the Price Includes section
- Nepal Entry Visa
Difficulty Level
Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Tour By Heli- 17 Days is graded as strenuous, with varying terrain and high altitudes. While prior trekking experience is not mandatory, a good level physical fitness and preparation is recommended.
Meals
Three nutritious meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided daily during the trek. The menu typically includes a variety of local and international dishes. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.
All meals will be provided during trekking while only breakfast will be available in Kathmandu. There will also be welcome and farewell dinners for guests. While on trek, we have breakfast and dinner in the lodges/tea houses. We spend the night and lunch on our way to the next destination. Nepalese, Tibetan and the more common continental and Indian cuisines are common choices on the menu.
To get an idea about your meals on the go, breakfast comprises a hot beverage, toast, pancakes, eggs, etc. At the same time, lunch will include rice items, noodles, potato varieties, pizza, pasta, burgers, meat items, and so on. The starters in dinnertime are soup varieties while the main course includes more or less similar items as that of the lunch menu, including a dessert item and a hot beverage. A piece of detailed information about the food on this trek gives you a clearer picture of your dietary provisions.
Accommodation
During the trek, you will stay in comfortable tea houses or lodges with basic amenities. Twin-sharing rooms with attached bathrooms are standard, although facilities may be more basic at higher altitudes. All accommodations are on a twin-share basis. A single supplement will be served on request at an extra cost.
Ama Adventure will arrange rooms with attached washrooms; however, lodges in some places only have shared washing and toilet facilities. Also, note that single rooms are readily available in Kathmandu and the trekking regions at lower elevations but it might be difficult to find them at higher elevations. The types and standards of accommodation during the Everest base Camp trek vary at different locations.
Weather Information
The best time to undertake the Everest Base Camp Trek is during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (October to November) seasons, when weather conditions are favorable and the skies are clear.
The temperature in Everest Base Camp is cold, reaching below freezing point during the night and early mornings. The temperature ranges from a maximum of 4°C / 39.2°F during the day to a minimum of -17°C / 1.4°F at night.
Important Notes
Your safety is always our top priority while traveling with Ama Adventure. We emphasize the importance of flexibility for ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.
Please be informed that flights to Lukla are often delayed due to weather conditions.
If a flight is canceled due to weather, be prepared for alternative arrangements.
Your trip leader has the authority to change the itinerary based on local conditions and their expert judgment.
We reserve the right to modify the itinerary due to medical considerations, unexpected weather conditions, natural disasters, etc.
Our leaders and crew strive to make your trip comfortable and to ensure it runs according to plan. However, we request your preparedness for flexibility if needed.
If you have any queries regarding the information above, please feel free to contact us. We look forward to guiding you on this incredible journey through the stunning landscapes of the Everest region.
Important Note: Trekking in Nepal – Please Read Carefully
Our itinerary is designed to give you the best experience, but unexpected situations may lead to changes. Factors like flight delays or cancellations, bad weather, natural disasters, political events, new government regulations, or a trekker’s health can affect the schedule. If such situations arise, we will always aim to continue the trek with the best possible alternatives. Your understanding and flexibility in these moments are truly appreciated.
We highly recommend adding two extra days at the end of your trek. Flights to and from Lukla are frequently delayed or canceled due to unpredictable mountain weather. Having buffer days will help prevent any issues with your international flight plans. You can also use these days to explore more of Nepal- whether it’s a Kathmandu sightseeing tour, some light adventure, or a day trip to nearby places before or after your trek.
Packing List
Here is a list of what you might want to pack for Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Tour By Heli. Please take this as a starting point. You’ll need layers of warmer clothing during the winter.
We provide a 75-liter duffel bag for you to use for the trek. It will be given to you during your pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu. The duffle bag is yours to keep. You can rent these equipment with USD 35 each as well.
General
- Four-season sleeping bag (rated to 0°C or lower)
- Sleeping bag liner
- Insulated down jacket
- Daypack (35-45 liters recommended) with rain cover
Upper Body
- Sun hat or cap
- Warm knitted hat or beanie
- Scarf or neck gaiter (Buff recommended)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- UV-protection sunglasses
Torso
- Moisture-wicking base layers, lightweight for warmer seasons, thermal for colder months
- Two short-sleeve and two long-sleeve trekking shirts made of quick-dry technical fabric
- Windproof and waterproof outer shell or jacket
- Warm fleece jacket or pullover for added insulation
Lower Body
- Thermal base layers, lightweight for warm months, heavier for cold conditions
- Two pairs of durable hiking pants
- Comfortable pants for relaxing inside teahouses
- Waterproof and windproof shell pants for protection against rain and wind
- One pair of hiking shorts (ideal for lower altitudes and warm days)
Hands
- Liner gloves made of wool or technical fabric for warmth and flexibility
- Insulated outer gloves with a hard shell, ideal for wind and cold at higher altitudes
Feet
- Warm socks made of wool or technical fabric
- Hiking socks (several pairs recommended)
- Optional liner socks (e.g., silk) for added comfort and blister prevention
- Waterproof trekking/hiking boots, well broken-in before the trek
- Ice Cleats or Micro Spikes (recommended from November to March for icy trails)
- Comfortable casual shoes or sandals for teahouse use
- Gaiters- lightweight for dust or heavier ones for snow in cold months
Undergarments
Note: Laundry opportunities are limited, so pack accordingly.
- Quick-drying, moisture-wicking underwear (technical fabric recommended), adjust quantity based on personal preference
- Sports bras (for women), supportive and breathable
- Pajamas or comfortable sleepwear for chilly nights in the mountains
First Aid Kits and Medications
(Note: Our guides carry a basic first aid kit, but personal supplies are strongly recommended)
- Sunscreen (high SPF)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Antiseptic or soothing ointment
- Personal medications (for altitude, allergies, pain relief, etc.)
Optional
(These can enhance your comfort during the trek and are widely available in Thamel, Kathmandu.)
- Power bank or spare batteries
- Camera and mobile phone (for capturing memories)
- Cards, books, or lightweight entertainment
- Pee bottle or pee funnel (especially useful for women at high altitudes)
- Trekking poles (highly recommended for stability)
- Whistle (for safety/emergency use)
- Thermos (to carry hot water/tea during cold days)
Tip: Thamel is full of gear shops where you can purchase or rent trekking essentials at a reasonable price once you’re in Kathmandu.
Other Essentials
- Valid passport
- Extra passport-sized photos (for permits or emergency use)
- Airline tickets (leave a copy with our office in Kathmandu)
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
- Water purification tablets or UV water purifier
- Lightweight towel
- Pillowcase (for hygiene in teahouses)
- Toiletry kit (toothbrush, toothpaste, wipes, etc.)
- Toilet paper (2 rolls minimum)
- High-protein snacks (nuts, energy/protein bars)
- Waterproof/dry bags to protect documents and valuables
Documents And Logistics
- Flight Information
- Photocopy of Passport
- Passport size photo for Tims and permit(4)
- Medical Insurance Card
- Valid Passport
- Airline tickets (leave a copy with our office in Kathmandu)
Dates & Prices
We ensure departures on all published dates. If these dates don’t align with your plans, we’re happy to assist in setting a customized date. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group seeking private trips, you can tailor-make your adventure. Reach out to us for pricing details or any other queries.
Group Discount Prices
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