Alture Treks
Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake
18 days
Moderate
From £ 1,950
£ 1,820
No of people Price per person
1 - 1 £1,950
2 - 4 £1,820
5 - 9 £1,800
10 - 16 £1,780
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What's included?

Transportation

Domestic flight and all ground transportation as per itinerary

Accommodation

Hotel in Kathmandu and Tea House / Lodge during the trek

Meals

All meals during the trek

Permits

Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and TIMS card

Guide

Experienced, English-speaking trek guide

What is it really like?

Photos from the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lake

Scenic alternative route to EBC via the stunning Gokyo Valley

Explore the turquoise Gokyo Lakes – a sacred and surreal alpine wonder

Ascend Gokyo Ri (5,357m) – panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, Makalu & more

Cross the dramatic Cho La Pass (5,420m) – thrilling high-altitude adventure

Walk past glaciers, waterfalls, and high passes in untouched wilderness

Incredible photo opportunities of the Ngozumpa Glacier – Nepal’s longest

Visit Sherpa villages and monasteries including Namche Bazaar and Tengboche

Reach Everest Base Camp (5,364m) and hike to Kalapatthar (5,545m) for sunrise

Key Information

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Alture Treks will warmly welcome you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. After check-in, you’ll have some time to rest and recover from your flight. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner hosted by Alture Treks, where you’ll be introduced to your guide and briefed on the exciting adventure ahead.

Spend the day exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Valley, including Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. These cultural landmarks offer insights into Nepal’s rich spiritual heritage. Later, attend a detailed pre-trek briefing with Alture Treks, where your trekking gear will be checked, and final preparations made.

Take an early morning scenic flight to Lukla (2,860m), the gateway to the Everest region. After meeting the porters, begin your trek with a gentle descent to Phakding. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River, passing through small villages and crossing suspension bridges. Overnight in Phakding.

Today’s trek leads you deeper into the Khumbu region. After crossing several suspension bridges and walking through pine forests, the trail climbs steeply to Namche Bazaar. This bustling Sherpa town is the commercial hub of the region and offers stunning views of Thamserku and Kongde Ri.

To adapt to the increasing altitude, spend a day acclimatizing in Namche. You can take a short hike to Everest View Hotel or visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and local markets. The extra rest helps prepare your body for higher elevations while offering time to enjoy panoramic Himalayan views.

Leave the main Everest trail and ascend through rhododendron forests and yak pastures toward Dole. The path offers beautiful views of snow-capped peaks such as Ama Dablam and Khumbila. As you move higher, the air becomes thinner, and you begin to feel the mountain wilderness more profoundly.

A short and steady ascent brings you to Machhermo. The landscape opens up, revealing alpine meadows and glacier-fed streams. You may spot Himalayan wildlife such as yaks and Himalayan tahr along the trail. Machhermo is a small settlement nestled below dramatic mountain peaks and glaciers.

The trail ascends alongside the Dudh Koshi River before reaching the first of the stunning Gokyo Lakes. As you approach the third lake, Dudh Pokhari, the turquoise waters and backdrop of Cho Oyu create a magical setting. Gokyo village lies beside this lake and offers one of the best places to experience the beauty of the Himalayas.

An acclimatization day allows time to explore Gokyo Valley. A morning hike up Gokyo Ri rewards trekkers with a 360-degree view of four 8,000-meter peaks: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. After enjoying the sunrise or panoramic views, return to Gokyo for a relaxed afternoon.

Cross the Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal, to reach Thagnak. The path across the glacier is rocky and undulating but offers extraordinary views of surrounding peaks. Thagnak is a quiet village that serves as the base for the next day’s Cho La Pass crossing.

One of the trek’s most challenging days, the trail ascends steeply to the top of Cho La Pass. The icy and rocky terrain requires caution, but the stunning views from the pass are worth the effort. After crossing, descend carefully to Dzongla, a small settlement surrounded by towering cliffs and glaciers.

A relatively easier day as you descend gently before ascending again to reach Lobuche. The trail follows the western side of the Khumbu Glacier and offers views of Nuptse and other Himalayan giants. As you get closer to Everest Base Camp, anticipation builds.

Begin the day with a trek to Gorak Shep, the last settlement before Everest Base Camp. After a short rest, hike along the Khumbu Glacier to reach Everest Base Camp. Surrounded by the immense Khumbu Icefall, prayer flags, and the sense of triumph, it’s a moment to remember. Return to Gorak Shep for the night.

Start early to climb Kala Patthar, the best viewpoint for a close-up look at Mount Everest, especially at sunrise. After enjoying the breathtaking vistas, descend to Gorak Shep for breakfast, then continue down to Pheriche, a quieter village ideal for rest after the high-altitude trek.

Continue your descent, retracing steps through the villages of Pangboche and Tengboche, passing monasteries and alpine forests. After a long day, arrive in Namche Bazaar, where hot showers and delicious food await. It’s a great place to celebrate your achievements.

Today’s trek is the final leg of your journey, descending through forests, crossing suspension bridges, and passing familiar villages. Upon reaching Lukla, reflect on your incredible journey with the Alture Treks team over a farewell dinner.

Catch an early morning flight back to Kathmandu. After arriving at your hotel, you’ll have the rest of the day free for rest, shopping, or exploring the city at your leisure. In the evening, Alture Treks may organize a farewell dinner to mark the end of your adventure.

A representative from Alture Treks will transfer you to the airport for your international flight. You leave Nepal with unforgettable memories of the mountains, warm hospitality, and a sense of personal achievement.

Your journey with Alture Treks begins in Kathmandu, Nepal’s bustling capital. After arrival and orientation, you'll take a short but scenic flight to Lukla (2,860m)—the gateway to the Everest region. Flights typically depart from Tribhuvan International Airport and take around 30-40 minutes, providing breathtaking views of the Himalayan range during the ride.

From Lukla, the trek proceeds on foot, ascending through charming villages, ancient monasteries, and dramatic alpine terrain. Porters and guides from Alture Treks accompany you every step of the way, carrying supplies and providing local insight. The trail meanders through well-established paths but includes challenging high-altitude passes, making air access crucial for timely start and finish. At the end of the trek, you’ll fly back to Kathmandu, completing the full circuit.
Elevation Chart
Food and lodging on the Everest Three Pass Trek are typically provided by local teahouses—simple but welcoming lodges operated by Sherpa families. Alture Treks partners with some of the best teahouses in each region to ensure cleanliness, comfort, and safety. Rooms are generally twin-sharing with shared toilets, though some remote areas may have more basic facilities.

Meals are hearty and designed to provide energy for long trekking days. Expect a variety of Nepali and international dishes such as dal bhat (lentils and rice), noodle soups, pasta, pancakes, and eggs. Alture Treks provides three meals a day, along with regular briefings and support to ensure dietary needs are met. Hydration and proper nutrition are a key focus, especially at high altitudes.
The Everest Three Pass Trek is considered very challenging and is best suited for experienced trekkers with a high level of fitness. The journey involves multiple high-altitude crossings over 5,000 meters, which can be physically and mentally demanding. Alture Treks recommends this trek only for those who have completed multi-day treks before and are comfortable walking 6–8 hours per day.

Altitude sickness is a real risk, and the itinerary includes acclimatization days in Namche Bazaar, Gokyo, and Dingboche to help your body adapt. The terrain can be rugged, icy, and steep in parts, especially during pass crossings. However, with the expert guidance and support of Alture Treks, your safety and pace are carefully managed to ensure a successful experience.

Weather in the Everest region is notoriously unpredictable, especially above 4,000 meters. The best seasons for the Everest Three Pass Trek are spring (March–May) and autumn (late September–November). During these months, skies are generally clear, temperatures are moderate for high-altitude trekking, and views are spectacular.

Winter (December–February) brings extreme cold and snow-covered passes, while the monsoon season (June–August) is wet and prone to landslides and flight cancellations. Temperatures at higher elevations can drop well below freezing, especially at night. Alture Treks constantly monitors weather forecasts and adjusts plans when needed to avoid risk, while also ensuring clients are well-equipped with proper gear.

  • Airport transfers in Kathmandu
  • Domestic flights (Kathmandu to Lukla and return)
  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu.
  • Teahouse accommodations during the trek
  • All meals during the trek
  • Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu
  • Sagarmatha National Park entry permit and TIMS card
  • Experienced, English-speaking trek guide
  • Porter(s) for luggage (1 per 2 trekkers)
  • Trekking map and group medical kit
  • International flights to/from Kathmandu
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Personal expenses (laundry, calls, internet, etc.)
  • Alcoholic beverages and bottled water
  • Extra nights in Kathmandu outside scheduled itinerary
  • Additional meals and beverages not specified
  • Tips for trekking staff
Preparing for the Everest Three Pass Trek requires serious physical conditioning. It’s recommended to begin training at least 8–12 weeks in advance. Focus on cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and core stability. Activities like running, hiking with a backpack, cycling, and stair climbing are excellent ways to build stamina.

Simulate trekking conditions by training on uneven terrain and at elevation if possible. Equally important is mental preparation—this trek demands resilience, patience, and determination. Alture Treks provides pre-departure consultations and gear checklists to help trekkers get fully ready. They also suggest bringing medication for altitude and investing in high-quality trekking boots and layered clothing.
Clothing
  • Thermal underwear (top & bottom)
  • Moisture-wicking t-shirts (long-sleeved)
  • Moisture-wicking underwear
  • Fleece jacket
  • Insulated jacket (down/synthetic)
  • Waterproof, windproof jacket
  • Waterproof pants
  • Warm beanie
  • Sun hat
  • Neck gaiter
  • Trekking pants
Handwear
  • Lightweight gloves (inner)
  • Insulated gloves/mittens (outer)
Footwear
  • Hiking boots (waterproof)
  • Camp shoes (sneakers/sandals)
Gear
  • Trekking backpack (30-40L) with cover
  • Sleeping bag (cold-rated)
  • Insulated sleeping pad
  • Trekking poles
  • Insulated water bottles/hydration bladder (2L)
  • Travel-sized toiletries
  • Biodegradable soap
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Medications (altitude, pain relief)
  • Sun protection cream
  • Wet wipes
  • Hand sanitizer
Miscellaneous
  • Camera and batteries
  • Notebook and pen
  • Earplugs
  • Portable solar charger
  • Headlamp, power bank, extra batteries

The Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes is a spectacular variation of the classic EBC route, offered by Alture Treks. This trek combines the thrill of reaching Everest Base Camp with the serene beauty of the Gokyo Valley, renowned for its turquoise glacial lakes, the stunning ascent of Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters), and a thrilling high-altitude crossing over the Cho La Pass (5,420 meters). This route offers a more scenic, less crowded, and more diverse experience of the Everest region, making it perfect for trekkers who want adventure, variety, and breathtaking Himalayan views.

The trek via Gokyo Lakes and Cho La Pass is more challenging than the standard EBC trek. It involves steep climbs, glacier crossings, and a high pass that can be icy or snowy, depending on the season. A good level of physical fitness, stamina, and previous trekking experience (especially at high altitudes) is recommended. Alture Treks ensures your safety and success with expert guides, carefully planned acclimatization days, and a gradual ascent profile.

The Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lakes trek typically takes 16 to 18 days, depending on the pace and acclimatization needs. The journey begins with a flight to Lukla, then follows the Dudh Koshi River valley to Namche Bazaar. From there, you branch off into the Gokyo Valley, explore the Gokyo Lakes, and ascend Gokyo Ri for panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. After crossing Cho La Pass, you rejoin the classic trail to reach Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar, before returning via Pheriche and Namche.

The best trekking seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and reliable trail conditions. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons and a lively trekking atmosphere, while autumn offers crisp air and stunning mountain views. Cho La Pass can be snow-covered in early spring or late autumn, so flexibility and good gear are essential.

Yes. Alture Treks will arrange all necessary permits, including the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. These are required for all trekkers in the Everest region and are included in your trek package. No additional restricted area permits are needed for the Gokyo route.

Trekkers stay in locally run teahouses throughout the trek, offering twin rooms with basic bedding and shared bathrooms. Some lodges have private rooms and hot showers available at extra cost. Meals include hearty dishes such as dal bhat, pasta, fried rice, soups, and Tibetan bread. Vegetarian and vegan diets are widely supported, and Alture Treks ensures hygienic meals and safe drinking water options throughout the journey.

Altitude sickness is a risk, especially since the trek involves multiple nights above 4,000 meters and includes a high pass. Alture Treks designs itineraries with proper acclimatization days—usually in Namche Bazaar and Gokyo—and our guides are trained to monitor symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Walking slowly, staying hydrated, and listening to your guide are key to minimizing risks. Emergency evacuations can be arranged by helicopter in case of severe illness.

Start training at least 6–8 weeks in advance, focusing on cardio fitness (hiking, running, cycling), leg strength, and endurance. Day hikes with a backpack are excellent preparation. While the trail itself does not require technical climbing, the crossing of Cho La Pass can be demanding, so mental resilience is important. Alture Treks offers full pre-trip guidance, including packing lists and fitness tips, to help you prepare.

Essential items include a down jacket, waterproof shell, thermal layers, hiking boots, gloves, a warm sleeping bag (-10°C rating), trekking poles, sunglasses, and a headlamp. A complete packing checklist is provided upon booking. Porters carry your main bag (max 10–12 kg), and you carry a daypack with water, snacks, a camera, and personal items.

Alture Treks delivers a high-quality, small-group experience led by knowledgeable, local guides with years of Himalayan trekking expertise. We focus on safety, sustainability, and cultural immersion, ensuring every detail—from logistics and permits to food and pacing—is professionally handled. With breathtaking detours, quieter trails, and unforgettable moments atop Gokyo Ri and Everest Base Camp, this is more than a trek—it’s a transformative journey.

The best seasons for the Gokyo Lake Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (late September to November). These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and spectacular mountain views. Springtime showcases blooming rhododendrons, while autumn offers crisp air and panoramic visibility. Although winter treks are possible, they require more gear and experience due to snow and colder temperatures. Alture Treks can assist in planning customized departures depending on your preferences and experience level.

With decades of experience in the Himalayas, Alture Treks is a trusted name in adventure travel. We combine professional logistics, ethical trekking practices, local expertise, and heartfelt service to ensure you enjoy a safe, immersive, and unforgettable trekking experience. Whether you're a solo traveler, part of a group, or first-time trekker, we tailor the journey to suit your pace and passion for the mountains.

The Everest Three Pass Trek is one of the most thrilling and comprehensive high-altitude trekking experiences in the world, designed for seasoned trekkers seeking an immersive Himalayan adventure. This 18-day expedition with Alture Treks takes you through three major mountain passes: Renjo La (5,360m), Cho La (5,420m), and Kongma La (5,535m)—each offering unique panoramic vistas, remote valleys, and pristine glacial lakes.

Unlike standard Everest Base Camp treks, the Three Pass route loops around the high Khumbu region, blending cultural immersion in Sherpa villages with raw alpine wilderness. Trekkers pass through iconic destinations like Gokyo Lakes, Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, and Chhukung, encountering the grandeur of peaks such as Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu along the way. Alture Treks ensures expertly guided support, safety-first logistics, and small group intimacy throughout the journey.

Why Choose Us – Everest Three Pass Trek

At Alture Treks, we specialize in crafting high-altitude adventures that are safe, immersive, and unforgettable. The Everest Three Pass Trek is one of the most demanding and scenic treks in Nepal—and choosing the right trekking company is critical to a successful journey. Here’s why trekkers consistently choose us for this iconic challenge:

1. Experienced and Certified Local Guides

Our guides are not only professionally trained and government-licensed, but they are also natives of the Khumbu region. This means they bring unparalleled local knowledge, cultural insight, and personal stories to your journey. Their experience with altitude management, first aid, and navigating Himalayan terrain ensures your safety and peace of mind on every step of the trail.

2. Thoughtfully Designed Itinerary

The Everest Three Pass Trek demands careful acclimatization, proper pacing, and logistical precision. We’ve designed a balanced itinerary that includes acclimatization days, flexible rest points, and gradual altitude gain to reduce the risk of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Our route covers all three high passes—Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La—without cutting corners, ensuring a complete and fulfilling experience.

3. Small Group Sizes for Personal Attention

Unlike mass tour operators, we keep our groups small and personal. This allows for stronger team dynamics, better guide-to-trekker ratios, and more responsive support. Whether you're traveling solo or in a group, our personalized service ensures you're never just a number—you’re part of our trekking family.

4. Ethical Trekking and Porter Welfare

We follow strict ethical guidelines to support fair wages, proper gear, and respectful treatment for all our guides and porters. At Alture Treks, we believe that those who help you reach your dreams should be treated with dignity. We are also committed to environmentally responsible practices that help preserve the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.

5. High-Quality Equipment and Pre-Trek Support

We provide top-tier trekking gear options (such as sleeping bags and down jackets) and assist you with a complete packing checklist before departure. From airport pickup to hotel arrangements and sightseeing in Kathmandu, we handle all logistics so you can focus on the adventure.

6. Excellent Reviews and Client Satisfaction

Our trekkers return not just with breathtaking photos, but with memories of meaningful connections and life-changing moments. We’re proud of our high client satisfaction rate, with many trekkers returning for other adventures or recommending us to their friends. You can read their stories on platforms like TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, and our website.

With Alture Treks, you’re not just walking a trail—you’re stepping into a world of expertise, safety, and unforgettable adventure. Join us on the Everest Three Pass Trek and experience the Himalayas the way they were meant to be: respectfully, passionately, and authentically.

You can count on us

Expert Local Guides

We are seasoned professionals who know these trails like the back of our hands. We bring both deep knowledge and genuine warmth to your journey—keeping you informed, inspired, and in good hands.

Authentic & Flexible Itineraries

We craft our trips to offer more than just the highlights. Whether it’s a peaceful village walk or a high-altitude challenge, our itineraries blend iconic sights with lesser-known gems, and we’re always happy to tailor the pace to your comfort.

Guaranteed Departures

Once you book, your adventure is locked in—no cancellations due to low group sizes. Whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a group, you can plan with confidence knowing your trip is guaranteed to go.

Commitment to Safety

Your well-being is our top priority. We closely monitor weather and trail conditions, carry essential safety gear, and make informed decisions on the ground. You’ll trek with peace of mind, backed by a team that genuinely cares.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

We practice low-impact trekking and support local communities every step of the way. From eco-conscious planning to fair wages for our team, we believe in travel that respects people, place, and planet.

Unbeatable Value

We believe great adventures shouldn’t come with a hefty price tag. With fair pricing, no hidden fees, and excellent service included from start to finish, Alture Treks offers exceptional value—so you get the most out of your journey without compromise.

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