EBC & Gokyo Lake : The Ultimate Chola Pass Heli-Circuit

Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), the crisp mountain air welcomes you to the gateway of the Himalayas. After clearing customs, our representative will meet you with a warm traditional welcome. Sit back and soak in the vibrant energy of Kathmandu’s bustling streets during your private transfer. Reach your hotel in the heart of the city, check in, and unwind before your trekking briefing. Your journey to the top of the world starts right here.

Day 2 is dedicated to final preparations and soaking in the spiritual essence of the valley. After a detailed trip briefing, we head out to explore Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. Marvel at the ancient architecture of Kathmandu Durbar Square, witness the sacred Hindu rituals at Pashupatinath, and find peace at the massive Boudhanath Stupa. The afternoon is yours to rent any last-minute gear in Thamel and double-check your kit before the flight to Lukla.

The adventure truly begins with a thrilling 35-minute flight to Lukla (2,860m), offering legendary aerial views of the snow-capped Mahalangur range. After landing at the famous Tenzing-Hillary Airport, we meet our trekking crew and set off toward Phakding (2,610m). The trail is a gentle 3-hour descent through lush pine forests and charming Sherpa hamlets. Following the turquoise Dudh Koshi River, we cross our first suspension bridges before resting for the night at a cozy riverside teahouse.

The trail today leads you deeper into the heart of the Khumbu. Following the Dudh Koshi River, you’ll cross several high suspension bridges, including the famous Hillary Bridge. After entering Sagarmatha National Park at Monjo and stopping for lunch in Jorsale, the real challenge begins—a steep, winding ascent through pine forests. Keep your eyes peeled for your first glimpse of Mt. Everest before arriving at the vibrant horseshoe-shaped Sherpa capital, Namche Bazaar (3,440m).

Today is for active rest and acclimatization to ensure your body adjusts to the thinning air. You’ll hike from Namche up to the traditional valley of Khumjung Village Click to open side panel for more information , nestled under the sacred peak of Khumbila. Visit the local monastery to see the "Yeti Scalp" and stop by the Hillary School. Afterward, descend slightly to Kyangjuma Click to open side panel for more information (3,550m), a serene settlement offering some of the most spectacular, front-row views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Everest. You’ll spend the night here, enjoying a quieter atmosphere away from the bustle of Namche.

The trail transitions from the main Everest track into the quieter Gokyo Valley. Leaving the viewpoints of Kyangjuma behind, you'll climb steadily to reach Mong La Click to open side panel for more information , a scenic pass marked by a central chorten. From this high perch, enjoy a panoramic look at Phortse village and the deep Dudh Koshi canyon. A steep descent followed by a climb through rhododendron and pine forests brings you to Dole Click to open side panel for more information (4,110m), a small settlement where the air begins to feel noticeably thinner.

The journey continues as you ascend steadily along the side of the valley, leaving the tree line behind for high-altitude scrub and expansive views. The trail offers a clear look at the majestic peaks of Cho Oyu, Kantega, and Thamserku as you traverse summer pastures and several small streams. You will arrive at Machhermo Click to open side panel for more information (4,470m) by midday. This settlement is famous in local lore as the site of a legendary Yeti sighting in 1974, and today it serves as a vital stop where you can attend an afternoon talk on altitude safety at the local Porter’s Shelter.

The climb from Machhermo rewards you with the first glimpses of the emerald Gokyo Lakes. You’ll ascend a scenic ridge before descending to the riverbank and climbing the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas. The trail flattens as you pass the first two lakes, Longponga and Taujun, finally reaching the third lake and the peaceful village of Gokyo (4,790m). Relax by the turquoise waters as the sun sets over the surrounding peaks.

Start your day with a pre-dawn ascent of Gokyo Ri Click to open side panel for more information (5,357m) for one of the most comprehensive panoramas in the Himalayas. From the summit, watch the sun ignite Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu simultaneously. After descending for a late breakfast, you’ll cross the massive, debris-covered Ngozumpa Glacier. The shifting trail over ice and rock leads you to the quiet settlement of Thangnag Click to open side panel for more information (4,700m), tucked beneath towering cliffs. Rest early tonight—you’ll need your strength for the formidable Cho La Pass tomorrow.

Today is the most challenging and rewarding segment of the circuit as you conquer the Cho La Pass Click to open side panel for more information (5,420m). Starting before dawn from Thangnag, you’ll navigate a steep, rocky scramble followed by a crossing of the icy, snow-covered glacier at the summit. Standing at the top, you are surrounded by a theater of giants before a steep, careful descent over technical terrain. The day concludes at the small settlement of Dzongla (4,830m), where you can rest your legs and enjoy stunning, close-up views of the north face of Ama Dablam.

The morning trek from Dzongla skirts the base of Cholatse as you rejoin the main Everest trail at the terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. You’ll walk past the poignant climbers’ memorials at Thokla Pass before reaching Lobuche (4,940m), a high-altitude outpost surrounded by dramatic peaks. After a brief lunch, the trail continues along the edge of the rocky Khumbu glacier moraine. The day ends at Gorak Shep (5,164m), the world’s highest permanent settlement and your final jumping-off point for the Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.

The morning begins with a walk across the rocky moraine towards the final goal of your trek. After navigating the undulating terrain of the Khumbu Glacier, you will finally stand at Everest Base Camp (5,364m), surrounded by colorful prayer flags and the massive Khumbu Icefall. Take your time to soak in the achievement and the sights of expedition tents before retracing your steps. The afternoon involves a steady descent back through the glacial valley to Lobuche (4,940m). This return trek allows for a slightly lower altitude to rest and reflect on reaching the base of the world's highest peak.

Your morning starts with a thrilling transition from the rugged trails to the sky. A scenic helicopter flight whisks you away from Lobuche, soaring over the Khumbu Glacier and providing a final, majestic look at Everest and Ama Dablam from above. After landing in Lukla, you will board a domestic flight back to Kathmandu.

This combination saves you days of strenuous downhill trekking, allowing you to reach the capital by afternoon. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel to enjoy a hot shower and a well-earned celebratory dinner, marking the successful completion of your Himalayan circuit.

This day serves as a crucial safety cushion for your journey. Himalayan weather can be unpredictable; if your flight from Lukla was delayed, this buffer ensures you don't miss your international connection.

If you've arrived on schedule, use today to decompress. Visit the tranquil Garden of Dreams to escape the city’s bustle, or explore the ancient streets of Asan Market to see local life in full swing. It’s also the perfect time for last-minute souvenir shopping in Thamel—look for authentic pashminas, hand-carved singing bowls, or intricate Thangka paintings. In the evening, enjoy a final celebratory farewell dinner with your team, reflecting on the incredible journey from the turquoise lakes of Gokyo to the foot of Everest.

Your journey comes to a close today. After a final breakfast at your hotel, take a moment to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city one last time. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have a few hours for a quiet stroll through the local markets or to grab a final Himalayan coffee.

A representative will meet you at your hotel for a private transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport, ensuring you arrive three hours before your scheduled departure. As you head to the gate, you’ll carry with you the profound silence of the high passes, the turquoise memories of Gokyo, and the unforgettable spirit of the Khumbu. Safe travels home!