On 30th October I fly to Kathmandu Nepal via Mumbai with Jet Airways. Arrival is on 31st. The trek I am doing is described below by the trek organisers Nepal Vision :-
Gokyo (4,750m/15 583ft), at the base of Gokyo Ri , is a small village in the Khumbu region. Located at one of the highest elevation in the world, trekking to Everest Base Camp via Gokyo lakes is one of the most adventurous trips attempted in the Khumbu region of Nepal. The trek facilitates climbing all the high valleys and passes in the region, culminating with the ascent of Kala Patthar (5,545 m/18,192 ft) and Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,598ft). At Gokyo, one can explore the obscure Sherpa valley providing majestic views of surrounding mountains in the whole of the Khumbu region.
Everest base camp Gokyo lakes trek materializes a unique trail that goes through Namche bazaar to Gokyo. You will cross Cho La Pass further up west and make all the the way up to Kala Patthar and Everest Base Camp.
The trek takes off from Lukla, a small town in Khumbu. The trail passes through numerous Sherpa villages, providing scenic views of the high snow-capped mountains. Kala Patthar is the highest elevation you can reach during the trek and it is also popular for enjoying the breathtaking view of the Everest.
In May/June this year I completed the 8 day Lemosho Route to the top of Kilimanjaro with my brother Mike. I have since read quite a bit comparing the two treks. The overall view seems to be the final summit part of Kili is much harder. Many say the hardest thing you will do. It was pretty brutal. The Everest trek seems more of a slow burn. While the highest point is not as high as Kili - the walk to Everest base camp is much longer (more than twice as long) and trekkers are at high altitude for much longer as a consequence. This presents some concerns.
Of course I am really looking forward to the Everest trek. To see Everest and to be in the greatest mountain range on the planet will be incredible I am sure. It will be satisfying to get there. However it would be fair to say I have a few apprehensions as well.
My main concern remains altitude sickness. On Kili I had a touch of vomiting early on - lost my appetite for a few days - but never had any headaches and coped very well and was strong throughout - as was Mike. We never used Diamox. I have to say the mutual support you get from a travel companion will be missed - it certainly is reassuring. On Everest they seem to take Diamox much more freely. However I have again decided not to use it . My reasons are simple. Diamox is used if you get altitude sickness. If you get altitude sickness despite using Diamox it would seem to me that you have a more serious bout - and that is not good. There is also the fact that I would prefer not to use drugs I do not have to use. I shall do what I did on Kili. Drinking copious amounts of water is recommended to fend off altitude sickness. On Kili water was easily available and I drank gallons. On Everest clean water is charged for - and apparently gets more expensive the higher you get. There is also the issue of polluting the environment with plastic bottles. I have decided to collect as much water as I can on my own and use water purification tablets (although they leave a chlorine taste) as a fall back with my new Sawyer Mini water purifying filter as my main source.
On Kili I lost a bit of weight. On Everest I expect to lose more - maybe half a stone. Part of this will be down to physical exertion - but mainly down to quantity of food consumed - or not consumed! The guide books recommend avoiding meat - which I shall do - and of course there is no alcohol while trekking.
Detail Itinerary for Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Valley (as extracted)
My main concern remains altitude sickness. On Kili I had a touch of vomiting early on - lost my appetite for a few days - but never had any headaches and coped very well and was strong throughout - as was Mike. We never used Diamox. I have to say the mutual support you get from a travel companion will be missed - it certainly is reassuring. On Everest they seem to take Diamox much more freely. However I have again decided not to use it . My reasons are simple. Diamox is used if you get altitude sickness. If you get altitude sickness despite using Diamox it would seem to me that you have a more serious bout - and that is not good. There is also the fact that I would prefer not to use drugs I do not have to use. I shall do what I did on Kili. Drinking copious amounts of water is recommended to fend off altitude sickness. On Kili water was easily available and I drank gallons. On Everest clean water is charged for - and apparently gets more expensive the higher you get. There is also the issue of polluting the environment with plastic bottles. I have decided to collect as much water as I can on my own and use water purification tablets (although they leave a chlorine taste) as a fall back with my new Sawyer Mini water purifying filter as my main source.
On Kili I lost a bit of weight. On Everest I expect to lose more - maybe half a stone. Part of this will be down to physical exertion - but mainly down to quantity of food consumed - or not consumed! The guide books recommend avoiding meat - which I shall do - and of course there is no alcohol while trekking.
Detail Itinerary for Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Valley (as extracted)
Day 01: Arrival day in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft)
Welcome to Himalayan country of Nepal. Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan intl. airport our representative welcomes you and assists to transfer in your hotel in Kathmandu. After time to get refreshed, evening you'll meet and transfer for welcome dinner in one of the typical Nepalese restaurant in the heart of Kathmandu and briefing about your trip and overnight at Hotel.Day 02: Kathmandu valley sightseeing & trek preparation (1,300m/4,264 ft)
After breakfast the day will start to our guided trip to cultural world heritage sites in Kathmandu valley; the pilgrimage sites of Hindus temple Pashupatinath, the world biggest Bouddhanath stupa and visit Swoyambhunath Stupa also known as monkey temple. After exploring the surrounding areas visit historical Kathmandu Durbar Square with temple, unique architectures and Kumari (living goddess). Evening pre-trip discussion and introduce with our fellow trekking staff for your adventure trip.Day 03: Fly to Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft) & trek to Phakding (2,652m/8,700ft), 3-4 hrs walk
Early morning we fly from Kathmandu to the tiny airstrip at Lukla for about 40 minutes scenic flight; you will have time to stroll around, while the guide sort and divide the load baggage to be carried by porters. Guide will manage the lunch place depending upon the time of arrival at Lukla. We then take an easy walk to Phakding village for the overnight stop and rest of the time stroll around the village for local knowledge.Day 04: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,283ft), 5-6 hrs walk
After breakfast we will continue up the banks of the Dudh Kosi, crossing it twice by small suspension bridges before reaching the village of Monjo the entrance gate of the Sagarmatha National Park. When enter the National park boundary we descend and a gradual walk brings us to the suspension bridge over the Bhote-Koshi river to Jorsalle village, the last village till Namche Bazaar. Namche is a prosperous trading town and the capital of the Khumbu Region.Day 05: Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar
We will spend a day in Namche Bazaar resting and allowing our bodies to become acclimatized to the altitude of (3,440m/11,283ft). You have full day leisure or visit Everest View Point hotel for wonderful panoramic view or stroll around the market, if Saturday can be seen many people in Saturday market for shopping to fulfill their daily needs and only one shopping market in the surrounding areas. Also you can visit Sherpa Museum as well a great place to learn Sherpa culture and history of mountaineering and stroll back to hotel for overnight.Day 06: Trek to Dole (4200m/13,776ft), 5-6 hrs walk
After stroll around the Namche area, we follow on the gradual trail with few short up and downs overlooking magnificent view of the great giant snow peaks at Shanasa. Our trek ascents the left side to Mongla hill and continue down to Phortse Thanga. After lunch further few hours walk ascending will reach at Dole for overnight. A small place with few teahouses and enjoy your night at Dole.Day 07: Trek to Machharmo (4470m/ 14,663ft), 4-5 hrs walk
After breakfast we climb to the scenic ridge above the Dole and the trail continues to climb along the side of the valley high above the river, crossing sandy spurs to reach Machharmo. Afternoon after reaches and refreshed visit Himalayan rescue association and overnight at the hotel.Day 08: Trek to Gokyo (4800m/15,744ft), 3-4 hrs walk
Today, we climb up to the ridge and can be seen excellent view both down the valley to Khangtega and northern part to the Cho-Oyu (8153m/26741ft). Our route descends to the river bank before beginning the climb up to the terminal moraine of the Ngazumpa glacier. Afterwards the trail levels out as it follows the valley past a second lake, known as Longponga at 4690m/15383ft. Enjoy the lake view and after an hour walk will reaches at Gokyo village on the edge of third lake.Day 09: Rest day at Gokyo
This may have full day rest at Gokyo or have chance to explore up to the fifth lake passing another forth lake and enjoy the view. This is great place and an opportunity to view full part of Mt. Everest and Cho-Oyu. You can see the Northern part of Cho-Oyu base camp and biggest glacier of the world Ngazumpa glacier; and stroll back to hotel for overnight.Day 10: Hike to Gokyo RI (5,330m/17,483ft), and trek to Thaknak (4750m/15580ft), 6-7 hrs walk
Early in this morning we hike up to Gokyo Ri for the breathtaking view of splash a sunrise top of the mountain including Mt. Everest view and many more Himalayan scenery. This will be unforgettable life time memories and enjoy around the top. We have a great memories and stroll back an hours to Gokyo for breakfast. We trek down to Thaknak for the overnight passing through the second lake and walk on the glacier.Day 11: Trek to Cho-la Pass (5367m/17604ft) to Dzongla (4,850m/15908ft), 5-6 hrs walk
This day is one of the tuff days to cross the Cho-la because of thee high pass. The pass is not difficult but it is steep and involves a glacier traverse on the eastern side. After crossing the Cho-la we reach at Dzongla for overnight. Enjoy the fantastic view around the high above.Day 12: Trek to Gorakshep (5,160m/16,929ft), 5-6 hrs walk
We continue our trek along the moraine of the glacier, with views of Kalapathar and Pumori. You have good chances for the best view of Mt. Nuptse a front of you walking along the Gorekshep. The trail up to the Gorakshep is rocky and windy but it offers the good view of Pumori and there are beautiful views of the Everest Base camp and glacier with scenic Mountain View. We enjoy the night at Gorakshep the higher elevation.Day 13: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,357m/17,575ft) and Gorakshep, 5-6 hrs walk
After the breakfast at Gorekshep we ready for our adventure to the targeted destination and we continue our trek towards the Everest Base Camp and to the Khumbu Ice-fall. The walk is quite strenuous due to the high altitude and thin air, the walk passes through over rocky dunes and moraine and streams till you reach the base camp. Everest Base Camp is lively with commotion during the high expedition season. After a grand time here retrace the journey back to Gorekshep for the overnight at lodge.Day 14: Kalapathar (5,550m/18,204ft) hike and stroll back to Dingboche (4,358m/14,295 ft), 7-8 hrs walk
Early morning our journey continue climb to the top the famous viewpoint Kalapatthar. After reaching the top, you will feel beaming as you achieve the moment that you been dreaming, since the beginning of the journey. Kalapathar is a small rocky peak on the southwest ridge of Mt. Pumori and the view from here is beyond imagination as the Everest looks amazing. You can also see the Everest Base camp down below on the moraine of Khumbu glacier and lot of picturesque scenery. After enjoying the panoramic views stroll back to Gorakshep and trek down to the Imja valley at Dingboche.Day 15: Trek to Tyangboche (3,867m/12684ft), 4-5 hrs walk
The walk today will be easy heading downhill to a lower elevation from Dingboche the walk is pleasant and all the way to Tyangboche. After the bridge our route descends following the stream towards Pangboche village, and further down to Tyangboche. Tyangboche is one of the most beautiful place in the Himalaya the first thing that comes to your eye is the big Monastery, then the large field with campsites and teahouses, lodges beneath the towering majestic beautiful peak Ama Dablam.Day 16: Trek to Monjo ((2680M/8791ft), 5-6 hrs walk
After breakfast treks down to Phunkethanga a small settlement with couple of teahouses. From here the trail leads downhill through the forested path with great memories and after crossing the local wooden bridge over the Dudh Koshi river trek onwards to steep climb to Sanasa to Namche bazzar and trek further down to Monjo for overnight stay.Day 17: Trek to Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft), 6-7 hrs walk
After breakfast we trek back with enjoying the lush green scenery around and passing through the incredible mountain scenery and local Sherpa village. And finally today the trail leads you back to Lukla. After your arrival in Lukla you will have time to relax and celebrate the completion of your trek.Day 18: Fly back to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft)
After an early morning flight to Kathmandu our guide transfer you to your hotel. You may have time to relax after long journey and take back your breath and rest at your hotel with ending your Himalayan trip with us.Day 19: Leave for Chitwan National Park
Day 22 Departure from Kathmandu
Welcome to Himalayan country of Nepal. Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan intl. airport our representative welcomes you and assists to transfer in your hotel in Kathmandu. After time to get refreshed, evening you'll meet and transfer for welcome dinner in one of the typical Nepalese restaurant in the heart of Kathmandu and briefing about your trip and overnight at Hotel.Day 02: Kathmandu valley sightseeing & trek preparation (1,300m/4,264 ft)
After breakfast the day will start to our guided trip to cultural world heritage sites in Kathmandu valley; the pilgrimage sites of Hindus temple Pashupatinath, the world biggest Bouddhanath stupa and visit Swoyambhunath Stupa also known as monkey temple. After exploring the surrounding areas visit historical Kathmandu Durbar Square with temple, unique architectures and Kumari (living goddess). Evening pre-trip discussion and introduce with our fellow trekking staff for your adventure trip.Day 03: Fly to Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft) & trek to Phakding (2,652m/8,700ft), 3-4 hrs walk
Early morning we fly from Kathmandu to the tiny airstrip at Lukla for about 40 minutes scenic flight; you will have time to stroll around, while the guide sort and divide the load baggage to be carried by porters. Guide will manage the lunch place depending upon the time of arrival at Lukla. We then take an easy walk to Phakding village for the overnight stop and rest of the time stroll around the village for local knowledge.Day 04: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,283ft), 5-6 hrs walk
After breakfast we will continue up the banks of the Dudh Kosi, crossing it twice by small suspension bridges before reaching the village of Monjo the entrance gate of the Sagarmatha National Park. When enter the National park boundary we descend and a gradual walk brings us to the suspension bridge over the Bhote-Koshi river to Jorsalle village, the last village till Namche Bazaar. Namche is a prosperous trading town and the capital of the Khumbu Region.Day 05: Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar
We will spend a day in Namche Bazaar resting and allowing our bodies to become acclimatized to the altitude of (3,440m/11,283ft). You have full day leisure or visit Everest View Point hotel for wonderful panoramic view or stroll around the market, if Saturday can be seen many people in Saturday market for shopping to fulfill their daily needs and only one shopping market in the surrounding areas. Also you can visit Sherpa Museum as well a great place to learn Sherpa culture and history of mountaineering and stroll back to hotel for overnight.Day 06: Trek to Dole (4200m/13,776ft), 5-6 hrs walk
After stroll around the Namche area, we follow on the gradual trail with few short up and downs overlooking magnificent view of the great giant snow peaks at Shanasa. Our trek ascents the left side to Mongla hill and continue down to Phortse Thanga. After lunch further few hours walk ascending will reach at Dole for overnight. A small place with few teahouses and enjoy your night at Dole.Day 07: Trek to Machharmo (4470m/ 14,663ft), 4-5 hrs walk
After breakfast we climb to the scenic ridge above the Dole and the trail continues to climb along the side of the valley high above the river, crossing sandy spurs to reach Machharmo. Afternoon after reaches and refreshed visit Himalayan rescue association and overnight at the hotel.Day 08: Trek to Gokyo (4800m/15,744ft), 3-4 hrs walk
Today, we climb up to the ridge and can be seen excellent view both down the valley to Khangtega and northern part to the Cho-Oyu (8153m/26741ft). Our route descends to the river bank before beginning the climb up to the terminal moraine of the Ngazumpa glacier. Afterwards the trail levels out as it follows the valley past a second lake, known as Longponga at 4690m/15383ft. Enjoy the lake view and after an hour walk will reaches at Gokyo village on the edge of third lake.Day 09: Rest day at Gokyo
This may have full day rest at Gokyo or have chance to explore up to the fifth lake passing another forth lake and enjoy the view. This is great place and an opportunity to view full part of Mt. Everest and Cho-Oyu. You can see the Northern part of Cho-Oyu base camp and biggest glacier of the world Ngazumpa glacier; and stroll back to hotel for overnight.Day 10: Hike to Gokyo RI (5,330m/17,483ft), and trek to Thaknak (4750m/15580ft), 6-7 hrs walk
Early in this morning we hike up to Gokyo Ri for the breathtaking view of splash a sunrise top of the mountain including Mt. Everest view and many more Himalayan scenery. This will be unforgettable life time memories and enjoy around the top. We have a great memories and stroll back an hours to Gokyo for breakfast. We trek down to Thaknak for the overnight passing through the second lake and walk on the glacier.Day 11: Trek to Cho-la Pass (5367m/17604ft) to Dzongla (4,850m/15908ft), 5-6 hrs walk
This day is one of the tuff days to cross the Cho-la because of thee high pass. The pass is not difficult but it is steep and involves a glacier traverse on the eastern side. After crossing the Cho-la we reach at Dzongla for overnight. Enjoy the fantastic view around the high above.Day 12: Trek to Gorakshep (5,160m/16,929ft), 5-6 hrs walk
We continue our trek along the moraine of the glacier, with views of Kalapathar and Pumori. You have good chances for the best view of Mt. Nuptse a front of you walking along the Gorekshep. The trail up to the Gorakshep is rocky and windy but it offers the good view of Pumori and there are beautiful views of the Everest Base camp and glacier with scenic Mountain View. We enjoy the night at Gorakshep the higher elevation.Day 13: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,357m/17,575ft) and Gorakshep, 5-6 hrs walk
After the breakfast at Gorekshep we ready for our adventure to the targeted destination and we continue our trek towards the Everest Base Camp and to the Khumbu Ice-fall. The walk is quite strenuous due to the high altitude and thin air, the walk passes through over rocky dunes and moraine and streams till you reach the base camp. Everest Base Camp is lively with commotion during the high expedition season. After a grand time here retrace the journey back to Gorekshep for the overnight at lodge.Day 14: Kalapathar (5,550m/18,204ft) hike and stroll back to Dingboche (4,358m/14,295 ft), 7-8 hrs walk
Early morning our journey continue climb to the top the famous viewpoint Kalapatthar. After reaching the top, you will feel beaming as you achieve the moment that you been dreaming, since the beginning of the journey. Kalapathar is a small rocky peak on the southwest ridge of Mt. Pumori and the view from here is beyond imagination as the Everest looks amazing. You can also see the Everest Base camp down below on the moraine of Khumbu glacier and lot of picturesque scenery. After enjoying the panoramic views stroll back to Gorakshep and trek down to the Imja valley at Dingboche.Day 15: Trek to Tyangboche (3,867m/12684ft), 4-5 hrs walk
The walk today will be easy heading downhill to a lower elevation from Dingboche the walk is pleasant and all the way to Tyangboche. After the bridge our route descends following the stream towards Pangboche village, and further down to Tyangboche. Tyangboche is one of the most beautiful place in the Himalaya the first thing that comes to your eye is the big Monastery, then the large field with campsites and teahouses, lodges beneath the towering majestic beautiful peak Ama Dablam.Day 16: Trek to Monjo ((2680M/8791ft), 5-6 hrs walk
After breakfast treks down to Phunkethanga a small settlement with couple of teahouses. From here the trail leads downhill through the forested path with great memories and after crossing the local wooden bridge over the Dudh Koshi river trek onwards to steep climb to Sanasa to Namche bazzar and trek further down to Monjo for overnight stay.Day 17: Trek to Lukla (2,800m/9,186ft), 6-7 hrs walk
After breakfast we trek back with enjoying the lush green scenery around and passing through the incredible mountain scenery and local Sherpa village. And finally today the trail leads you back to Lukla. After your arrival in Lukla you will have time to relax and celebrate the completion of your trek.Day 18: Fly back to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft)
After an early morning flight to Kathmandu our guide transfer you to your hotel. You may have time to relax after long journey and take back your breath and rest at your hotel with ending your Himalayan trip with us.Day 19: Leave for Chitwan National Park
Day 22 Departure from Kathmandu
Today is free or last minute shopping for souvenirs or gift to your family, friends or relatives for you until your departure flight/drive or to commence any extra trips or activities you may have booked with us. If departing, you'll be transferred to the International Airport for your departure flight to your onwards destination.
A lot to look forward to!
A lot to look forward to!
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