• Duration

      19 days

    • Group

      16 Pax

    • Difficulty

      Moderate

    • Accommodation

      Hotel / Lodge

    • Max.Altitude

      5555m

    • Season

      All Season

Also known as Everest Circuit trek, this is one of the most adventurous treks in the Everest Himalayas, it follows the route via high pass of Cho La at 5,330m into the Base Camp of Mount Everest.A unique trek that goes through Lukla, Namche bazaar and all the way to Gokyo, Chola Pass, Kalapattar and Everest Base Camp.

Leading you to the home of the legendary Sherpa people, based at the foothills of the highest peak in the world, Mt. Everest at 8,848m. This trek follows the highly praised trekking route through the DudhKoshi to its source the Gokyo Lake which is to the west of the Everest Base Camp, giving you the benefit to summit Gokyo Peak (5,483m) offering a fantastic panoramic view of Cho Oyo, Everest and Makalu.

As we cross the Cho-La pass, and return back to Lukla following the route through Everest Base Camp, Kalapattar down to Tengboche monastery, Khumjung village, Namche Bazar and Lukla. Enjoy the breathtaking views of Everest including several other similar peaks and explore the Buddhists monasteries located at the world's highest elevation.

Itinerary

  • Day 1
    Arrival in Kathmandu (1,345m/4,413 ft)

    Upon arriving at at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be received by our airport representatives who will warmly greet you and transfer to the hotel on a private tourist vehicle. We provide 3-star accommodation in the city and we arrange for a trip briefing with dinner in the evening.

  • Day 2
    Visit old town of Kathmandu

    A professional guide and vehicle are provided for a day of sightseeing in and around Kathmandu city. We visit some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the city along with other interesting cultural monuments that dot the valley. These include Boudhanath Stupa (the largest Buddhist shrines in the world), Pashupatinath (the holiest Hindu temple in the world), Durbar Squares (Palaces and fortresses of medieval Kings), along with other popular cultural attractions. We get to observe the lifestyle of Nepalese people, holy sadhus and monks, fascinating history as well as awe-inspiring architecture.

  • Day 3
    Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,800m/9,186 ft). Trek to Phakding (2,610m/8,563 ft)

    Early in the morning, you will be transferred to the airport in Kathmandu for a scenic 30-minute flight to Lukla. The airport guide will brief you and introduce our porters before we begin our trek towards Phakding (2,610m). There will be some time to explore the village while our Sherpa crew sorts and loads trekking equipment and baggage. The trek starts with a descent to DudhKosi River, from where the wider trail leads us to the village of Ghat (2,550m), and then to Phakding on an easy-paced walk.

  • Day 4
    Trek from Phakding to Namche Bazar (3,440m/11,286 ft)

    Walking along the shores of DudhKosi, we get to cross the serene river many times on exhilarating suspension bridges decorated with prayer flags. A little further, we enter Sagarmatha National Park from where the trail climbs steeply with picturesque sights. After trekking for a few hours, we reach Namche Bazaar, known as the Gateway of Everest.

  • Day 5
    Namche Bazaar acclimatization day

    In order to acclimatize to the altitude gained and thinner air, we spend a day in Namche Bazaar. There are several quality restaurants, hotels, lodges, shops, money exchange services, internet cafes and bakeries at this town, also the largest in the Everest region. We pay a visit to the museum nearby known for its traditional artefacts that showcase the Sherpa culture. We also hike to Syangboche Airport from where we can see rewarding vistas of stunning sunrise and sunset over the Himalayan panorama.

  • Day 6
    Trek from Namche Bazar to PhorsteThanga (3,680m/12,073 ft)

    The trail climbs steeply out of valley through rhododendron forest, juniper and large conifers start to appear as the elevation increases making the trekking very pristine in spring. The trail passes through Yak Kharkas and summer settlements. The views of Khumbi La and Tawache are magnificent throughout the day.

  • Day 7
    Trek from Phortse Thanga to Machherma (4,470m/14,665 ft)

    We climb a ridge for an excellent view both down the valley to Kengtega and up towards Cho Oyu and descend to a river and again climbs steep to the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpz glacier. We will reach Machherma by early noon.

  • Day 8
    Trek from Machherma to Gokyo (4,790m/15,715 ft)

    The trek today takes us at one of our main destinations, Gokyo (4,790m). We will make this camp our base for 2 nights as we will have couple of sightseeing and hiking trips around Gokyo.

  • Day 9
    Trek from Gokyo to GokyoRi (5,438m/17,841 ft), and back to Gokyo (4,790m/15,715 ft)

    Early in the morning we have a steep climb up to the top of GokyoRi at an elevation of 5,483m. 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. This day we have for acclimatization and after noon back to the camp.

  • Day 10
    Trek from Gokyo to Thangna (4,500m/14,764 ft)

    Trek to the foot of Cho La pass for our overnight stay at a guesthouse.

  • Day 11
    Trek from Thangna to Dzongla (4,710m/15,453 ft), via Cho La Pass (5,300m/17,388 ft)

    We start before sunrise at 4 or 5am to reach the pass by 9 - 10am to dodge bad weather conditions of the noontime. We cross over at an altitude of 5,300m where we could be exposed to strong winds if we crossing too late. We start to climb steeply that is regularly used and easy to follow. However, the problem may arise due to the altitude and snow. It often causes terrible problems to cross the pass if it is covered by snow. As you reach the top, you are rewarded by the magnificent views, then we descend to the Dzongla at noon.

  • Day 12
    Trek from Dzongla to Lobuche (4,910m/16,109 ft)

    A rather easier and shorter trekking route will take us to Lobuche after 4 hours of trekking.

  • Day 13
    Trek from Lobuche to EBC (5,365m/17,602 ft) and then to Gorakshep (5,180m/16,995 ft)

    This is difficult day walk along the Khumbu Glacier and up to Everest Base Camp at 5,365m the closest you can get to Mt. Everest without mountaineering equipment. There will likely be a team there about to attempt the summit. The view of the Khumbu Icefall from Base Camp is spectacular. We return back to Gorakshep for the night.

  • Day 14
    Trek from Gorakshep to Dingboche (4,350m/14,272 ft) via Kalapathar (5,555m/18,225 ft)

    This will be one of the most difficult yet rewarding days of the trek. Most of morning in this day is spent climbing Mt. Kala Patthar, a small peak (by the Himalayan standards) at 5,555m. The ascent is demanding but the climber gets the most magnificent mountain panorama: Everest, the highest point on the planet at 29,028ft (8,848m), towers directly ahead and on all sides loom the other giants, Nuptse, Pumori, Chagatse, Lhotse and countless others. We make a quick descent to GorakShep, a tiny hamlet at 5,180m then trek down to Periche.

  • Day 15
    Trek from Dingboche to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,286 ft)

    From Periche we take a slightly different route down to Orsho then to Pangboche village. Here is the oldest monastery in the region which contains what is said to be the scalp and bones of a Yeti, or abominable snowman. Leaving mountains behind us our descent takes us through the Tengboche Monastery at elevation of 3,860m before continuing back to Namche Bazaar at 3,441m. We arrive back to Namche Bazaar in the afternoon.

  • Day 15
    Trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2,800m/9,186 ft)

    Finally we return to Lukla where we started our trek, which might seem like a lifetime ago. We'll spend some time enjoying and reflecting on the trek as a group and the personal achievement of all those who took part. We also have some spare time to explore the town some more.

  • Day 17
    Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu (1,345m/4,413 ft)

    Today we fly back to Kathmandu from Lukla, and during your flight you can enjoy some last-minute glimpses of the mountains. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you can rest, relax and go sightseeing throughout the day.

  • Day 18
    Leisure day in Kathmandu

    This is a leisure and free day in Kathmandu for exploration. You are free to go souvenir shopping, spa and more exploration of the city, or extend your trip to include bungee jumping, rafting, mountain biking, Everest mountain flight and other adventurous activities. In the evening, we will have a farewell dinner at Mul Chowk Restaurant’s cozy and elegant dining ambience.

  • Day 19
    Departure from Nepal

    The trip concludes today. You will be dropped at Kathmandu's Tribhuwan International Airport by our airport representative for your flight departure from Nepal.

Map

What's included

Price Details

Please enquire with us for prices

Price Includes

  • - All ground transportation by private vehicle for airport and hotel pick up/drop off, sightseeing and transfers
  • - All domestic flights (if any)
  • - Accommodation in teahouses and hotels
  • - All meals during trek
  • - Entry permit to parks, monuments and cultural landmarks
  • - Trekking guide(s), porter(s) and driver(s) their daily wages, food, accommodation and other expenses
  • - Comprehensive medical kit
  • - In case of emergency, we can send helicopters for evacuation, manage all paperwork, and deal with related insurance companies (provided the client has valid insurance)
Not included

Price Excludes

  • - International airfare and airport departure tax
  • - Travel insurance covering medical treatment and evacuation by ground and air
  • - Nepal entry visa, obtained upon arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu
  • - Rescue and evacuation
  • - Extra road transport/flight cost in case member returns earlier
  • - Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and if applicable, in Pokhara
  • - Items of personal nature like laundry, communication and bar bill
  • - Tips for trip staff and driver. (Tipping is appreciated)
  • - Other expenses not mentioned in the Price Includes section

Life on Trek

Trekking staff

Whilst on the trek, the Nepali guides and porters will ensure that you are well looked after. Every trek has an English speaking guide, known as the Sirdar, who is in overall charge. It is his responsibility to organize the trek en route and manage the guides and porters and deal with the local peoples and they are experts in trek organization, as well as being able to discuss the local culture, religion, and landscape. In addition there will be other guides, sometimes referred to by the generic term Sherpa, who will be your walking companions on the trek and will assist the Sirdar in organizing the logistic of the trek. On camping treks there will be full kitchen crew who are responsible for all aspects of catering. And finally there will be porters who are the transportation system of the Nepali mountains. They will carry the duffle bags and other equipment as necessary.

Accommodation

  • Fully equipped Camping treks - accommodation is provided in spacious 2 person tents. We use this method for our climbing trips and some treks where lodges are less frequent.
  • Lodge trek - accommodation is provided in the local Nepali lodges, some times known as tea- houses. It is usually necessary to share a double room. We use this method for our treks in the Annapurna and Everest regions.

Food

On camping treks, all food is prepared by the trek cook - an expert in preparing delicious camp food. And most importantly, special care is taken to provide well - boiled, purified drinking water. On lodge treks, food is provided in the lodge and this ranges from delicious local specialties to common western dishes. If necessary, bottled water can be purchased from the lodges for a small fee, although many trekkers prefer to use fresh water with the added precaution of a purifying agent. You could bring some Chocolate or special energy drinks for yourself as these are hard to get in the Himalayas.

A typical trekking day

A typical day revolves around the Nepal sunrise and sunset. The day starts with an early wake up call. You then pack up your gear and enjoy a rousing breakfast before starting your morning's walk. The Sirdar will already be organized loads to porters and or animals, and your group will then set off on the trail at a leisurely pace, enjoying the view and stopping to take photographs. After 2-3 hours walk you stop for lunch. This lasts for about 90 minutes which gives you time to relax, or explore the local village. The afternoon's walk is usually shorter and we arrive at the campsite or tea-house in plenty of time to relax and savour the surroundings. Later in the evening dinner is served, giving you an opportunity to sample the delicious food, talk over the day's events, and look forward to another special day on the trails of Nepal.

Health and safety on the trek General

  • A comprehensive first aid kit is carried on the trek. However we advise that you also carry your personal first aid kit which includes specific items of preference.
  • We will, in an emergency, arrange for helicopter evacuation. (Note that you are required to hold insurance for this unlikely eventuality).
  • All meals on our camping trips are prepared to strict hygiene standards specifically for our groups, under the supervision of the trekking staff.
  • We use tea-houses that we now have strict hygiene standards and provide a broad menu.

High Altitude

Anyone can be affected by Altitude Sickness. However, our itineraries are specifically designed to minimize the risks associated with trekking to high altitudes by building in acclimatization and rest days. In the event of any symptoms we will ensure that the individual descends to a lower altitude to gain a quick recovery.

And finally……….. It must be stressed that whilst trekking in the Nepal Himalaya is challenging and rewarding, you must be prepared for he occasional inconvenience or discomfort. The correct mental attitude to trekking is as important as being physically prepared.

Equipments

All equipment and food, and your own personal backpacks are carried by the porters or pack animals. It is only necessary to carry a camera or small daypack ! On camping treks all necessary camp equipment is provided - this includes dining tent, dining table and chairs, toilet tent, foam mattresses, and all cooking equipment. The only kit that you will need to bring is your own personal equipment and clothing.

Recommended Trekking Kit

The following is a list of clothing and accessories that we recommend that you take with you. This is not intended to be a comprehensive clothing and equipment list, rather it is intended to act as a reminder of those items that we feel are essential for your comfort and convenience. However we recognize that you may have your own personal preferences for clothing which may be equally as suitable.

Footwear

  • Walking boots with suitable ankle support that have been worn - in prior to the trek, and which are waterproof.
  • Trainer or casual shoes, for trekking andor for traveling
  • Warm socks for colder areas.
  • Gaiters ,,in case of rain or snow.

Leg wear

  • Loose, casual trousers for trekking.
  • Thermal leggings for colder areas.
  • Long skirt for women as an alternative to trousers
  • Waterproof trousers

Body

  • Selection of T-shirts, and long sleeved shirts, preferably not cotton.
  • Thermal shirt for colder areas.
  • Warm shirt, possibly fleece, for colder areas.
  • Fleece jacket or warm wool jumper.
  • Windproof, waterproof outer shell garment for higher altitudes.
  • Down jacket (optional for cold nights & mornings: can be hired in Kathmandu cheaply)

Head Hands

  • Wool or fleece hat, or balaclava.
  • Hat or cap for sun protection while trekking.
  • Sunglasses or goggles.
  • Sunscreen lotion and lip balm
  • Warm gloves.

Other Items

  • Strong rucksack, or large holdall to be carried by porters
  • Day sack to be carried personally.
  • Plastic bags or stuff sacks to storeseparate trekking gear inside your main bag.
  • One liter water bottle.
  • Personal first aid kit to include essential items.
  • Sleeping bag 4 season.
  • Torch, ideally head torch.
  • Camera and film! - for those not to be forgotten shots of the Himalaya.
  • Toilet items and towel.
  • Large handkerchief bandana for neck.

Recommended Mountaineering Kit

In additional to the items mentioned above for trekking the following is a list of the additional specialist items which are required for the trekking peaks.

  • Plastic or Leather mountaineering boots, with gaitors & crampons that have been tested for a good fit.
  • Fleece trousers or salopettes.
  • Additional mitts and gloves suitable for climbing.
  • Ice ace, and ski poles (Note: ice axe can hired in Kathmandu)
  • Climbing harness
  • 2 X tape slings
  • 2 X screw gate karabiners.
  • Descended abseil device Ascender

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