Turquoise lakes, a high pass and Everest up close
Overview
This is the Everest trek for people who want more than the main trail. Instead of going straight up the Khumbu valley, you head first to the Gokyo valley, a chain of turquoise glacial lakes beneath Cho Oyu. From Gokyo Ri (5,357 m) you see four 8,000 m peaks in one sweep: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu.
From Gokyo you cross the Ngozumpa, the longest glacier in Nepal, and then the Cho La pass (5,420 m), a short glacier crossing with fixed views of Ama Dablam. On the other side you join the classic route to Lobuche, Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, then descend through Pheriche and Namche to Lukla. Quiet trails, fewer trekkers and a full loop make this route stand out.
It suits fit, experienced walkers who have trekked above 4,000 m before or who train seriously. The Cho La crossing is a long day, sometimes on snow, and our guides carry microspikes and decide the crossing on the day based on conditions.
Why book with us: experienced English or Spanish-speaking guides who know the pass well, a maximum of 10 trekkers, and an extra contingency plan if snow closes Cho La.
Remote, very high terrain. For fit and experienced trekkers.
Day By Day
Highest point reached each day, taken from the itinerary. Gradual gains give your body time to acclimatize.
Airport pickup, briefing and gear check.
Mountain flight, then 3–4 hours down the Dudh Koshi valley.
Hillary bridge and the climb into the Sherpa capital; 6 hours.
Hike to the Everest View Hotel and back.
Leave the main trail at Mong La (3,970 m) and drop into the quiet Gokyo valley; 5–6 hours.
A short day for acclimatisation, with Cho Oyu ahead; 4 hours.
Pass the first and second lakes to Gokyo village on the third lake; 5 hours.
Sunrise climb of Gokyo Ri for four 8,000 m peaks. Optional walk to the fourth lake.
A short, rocky crossing of the Ngozumpa glacier; 3 hours.
Early start for the pass, a short glacier walk and a steep descent to Dzongla (4,830 m); 8 hours.
An easy half day joining the main Everest trail; 3 hours.
To Gorak Shep, then on to Everest Base Camp; 7–8 hours.
Sunrise on Everest from Kala Patthar, then down to Pheriche; 7–8 hours.
Back through Tengboche; 6–7 hours.
Final trekking day and farewell dinner.
Morning flight and a free afternoon.
Airport transfer.
Good To Know
Included
Not included
Best Time To Go
Recommended: Apr, May, Oct, Nov. We run this trek on the dates you choose. Tell us when you would like to go and we will check conditions for you.
Make It Yours
This itinerary is a starting point. Tell us what matters to you and we will shape the trip around it.
Questions
Reviews
My trekking experience in Nepal was absolutely incredible. From arriving in Kathmandu to the mountains of the Himalaya, everything was perfectly organised. The guides were professional, attentive and very knowledgeable about the region. I felt safe at all times, even travelling alone. Without a doubt, I recommend this...
I went on a solo trekking adventure to the Everest region with Unique Nepal Treks and Expedition, and it was life-changing! The itinerary was perfectly planned, and the guides were knowledgeable and friendly. From arranging flights and hotels to transportation and trekking support, everything was seamless. I felt safe...
From the moment I landed in Nepal, everything was taken care of with professionalism and warmth. As a solo female traveler, I felt completely safe and supported throughout the trek. The landscapes were breathtaking, and the experience was life-changing. I highly recommend this agency — they are truly the best in Nepal...
Sophie Laurent
France
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