Nepal Gokyo Lakes Trekking Tour
Epic Peaks of the Himalaya
- Available: March, April, May, October, November
- Activity: Level 4
- Accommodations: Luxury Hotels, Comfortable Hotels, Rustic Lodging
Highlights
- Trek a quieter Everest route through UNSECO-protected Sagarmatha National Park to sacred Gokyo Lakes
- Be awed by incredible views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu along the trail
- Experience Sherpa culture in mountain villages and visit Kathmandu's temples and shrines
Itinerary
Arrive in Kathmandu
Day 1
Welcome to Nepal! You will be met on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu and transferred to your accommodation. The afternoon is yours to recharge or explore nearby sights. Gather with your fellow travelers and local guides in the evening to discuss your Gokyo Lakes trek. Then, sit down to a welcome dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant to celebrate the start of your adventure!
Accommodation: The Soaltee Kathmandu
Transportation: 30-minute private van transfer
Meals: Dinner
Wander Bhaktapur's Medieval Lanes
Day 2
Today you will stretch your legs on a walking tour of enchanting Bhaktapur. The ancient city’s Durbar Square is a UNESCO-listed collection of beautifully preserved palaces, timeless temples, and carved wooden windows that showcase the artistry of the Newar people. Though the city dates to the 12th century, it continues to pulse with life today—red brick streets wind through architectural masterpieces to bustling markets and artisan workshops. Towering above it all is the five-tiered Nyatapola Temple, one of the tallest and most striking temples in Nepal. After lunch, return to your accommodation. Your afternoon is free to relax, explore, or check out the spa. Dinner is on your own to explore restaurants in town or choose one of the options at the hotel.
Accommodation: The Soaltee Kathmandu
Activity: 2-3 hours walking tour
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Helicopter to Lukla & Trek to Phakding Village
Day 3
Begin the day with a thrilling helicopter flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (9,380'), enjoying stunning aerial views of rolling hills, deep valleys, and Himalayan peaks. Then it’s time to lace up your boots and trek into the Khumbu with the peak of Kongde Ri (20,299') towering above. Descend into rhododendron and pine forests and cross suspension bridges to views of sacred Khumbu Yul-Lha. Hike through Sherpa villages where you will discover mani stones, prayer wheels, and stupas before arriving at Phakding (8,563') this afternoon to enjoy river views and relax.
Accommodation: The Himalayan Phakding Lodge
Activity: 3.5-4 hours/5.5 miles hiking with 150' elevation gain and 820' elevation loss
Transportation: 50-minute helicopter flight
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek through Sherpa Villages to Monjo
Day 4
The Dudh Koshi (“Milk River”) rushes through the Khumbu Valley in an opalescent surge fed by Himalayan glaciers. Flowing from the high slopes of Mount Everest, its icy, mineral-rich waters carve deep gorges and power past boulders beneath iconic swaying suspension bridges draped in prayer flags. Follow its course today, crossing back and forth over bridges and weaving in and out of forest as you pass the Sherpa villages that line its banks. Catch glimpses of Kusum Kanguru and Thamserku (both over 20,000') before arriving at Monjo (9,301').
Accommodation: Everest Summit Lodge-Monjo
Activity: 3.5 hours/4 miles hiking with 800' elevation gain minimal elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enter Sagarmatha National Park & Trek to Namche Bazaar
Day 5
Walk to Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO-listed sanctuary encompassing the southern slopes of Mount Everest. Once permits are checked, continue into the Khumbu to again cross the fast-flowing Dudh Koshi and its confluence with the Bhote Koshi by suspension bridges. From here, the real climb begins on a series of switchbacks winding toward your first chance for an Everest view. Continue through pine and rhododendron forest to legendary Namche Bazaar. Visit the Sherpa Museum this afternoon to learn more about Sherpa culture and Everest’s climbing history before settling in at your accommodations.
Accommodation: Hotel Namche
Activity: 4.5-5 hours/4.5 miles hiking with 1,985' elevation gain and 150' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Discover Namche Bazaar & Hike to Everest Views
Day 6
Spend this acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar (11,290'), a historic trading hub that became the primary staging point for Everest expeditions after the first successful ascent in 1953. Start the day with a morning hike to Hotel Everest View—the world’s highest hotel—for the best chance of dazzling views of Everest (29,032'), Lhotse (27,940'), and Ama Dablam (22,349') before sitting down to lunch amid these giants. Return to town with time to check out the lively intersection of Sherpa tradition and trekker adrenaline in the many shops and cafes, chatting with locals and other trekkers as you explore. Rest up for another big climb tomorrow.
Accommodation: Hotel Namche
Activity: 4-5 hours/3.5miles hiking with 1,445' elevation gain and loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Take the Trail Less Traveled to Phortse Village
Day 7
Branching off from the Everest Base Camp buzz, climb steadily above the valley with views of Everest and distant Tengboche. Hike quiet trails past stupas and hamlets, emerging from birch forest to a dramatic panorama of the Gokyo Valley, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. Follow the ridgeline to Mong La (pass) (13,034') for a spectacular picnic before descending steeply through rhododendron and juniper, the peaks of Ama Dablam, Kangtega, and Thamserku rising ahead. As you near Phortse (12,598'), the landscape softens into terraced fields and stone houses perched high above the Dudh Koshi Valley. Spend the afternoon on your own, exploring the monastery, chortens, and mani walls, and experiencing Sherpa culture in this traditional village known for its mountaineers and only reachable on foot.
Accommodation: Phortse Guest House
Activity: 6-7 hours/7 miles hiking with 2,790' elevation gain and 1,345' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Reach Dole in the Heart of the Himalayas
Day 8
Drop into the Dudh Kosi Valley, descending through rhododendrons and fragrant pines to the valley floor. Cross the rushing river, then climb up the other side via switchbacks through woodlands that gradually reveal magnificent views of Cho Oyu (26,864'). Continuing into alpine yak meadows you might be lucky enough to spot a rare white-bellied musk deer in the wild. Arrive in the peaceful village of Dole (13,248'), with time for a short acclimatization hike with a panoramic vista before settling in for the evening.
Accommodation: Yeti Inn-Dole
Activity: 4 hours/4 miles hiking with 2.067' elevation gain and 1,772' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike to Machhermo Surrounded by Snowclad Peaks
Day 9
Leaving Dole in the morning, climb above the tree line into open alpine terrain, where the landscape widens and views stretch across the Khumbu. Traverse broad meadows and stands of smaller rhododendrons, passing seasonal herder settlements. The trail undulates, revealing ever-changing perspectives of the valley below and soaring peaks all around, including Cho Oyu. Pass yak pastures, stupas, and prayer flags as you approach Machhermo (14,665'), a remote village at the foot of massive Ngozumpa Glacier. A strategic acclimatization stop on the way to Everest, Machhermo is also famous for an encounter between a yak herder and the fabled yeti, reported in 1974.
Accommodation: Machhermo Lodge
Activity: 4-5 hours/4.5 miles hiking with 1,870' elevation gain and 720' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore the Spellbinding Gokyo Lakes
Day 10
Once again, you climb through jaw-dropping scenery with the Machhermo Valley disappearing below and the Himalayan giants all around you. The Dudh Kosi plunges down into valleys, under bridges, and along villages, a vital source of water in the Khumbu. Cross the river to its headwaters—the Gokyo Lakes. The terrain evens to a stark, high-altitude landscape of rock and glacial moraine, as you walk alongside the first lake’s shimmering turquoise surface, then explore the second, and arrive at the magnificent Third Lake to find a sensational amphitheater of snow-covered peaks beyond the jewel-like water.
Accommodation: Gokyo Resort
Activity: 4-5 hours/4.3 miles hiking with 1,310' elevation gain and 230' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Summit Gokyo Ri for Epic Views of Everest, Cho Oyu & Lhotse
Day 11
Set out before dawn, crossing the glacial stream that feeds Gokyo Third Lake and carefully navigating rocky trails with headlamps. Begin to climb the mountain's stark peak on a series of switchbacks. Dawn breaks about halfway up to the summit, and golden light washes over the Himalaya as you continue to the top of Gokyo Ri (17,575'), where a breathtaking panorama of a towering white peaks—including Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu—rise above the shimmering Gokyo Lakes and Ngozumpa Glacier below. After absorbing this remarkable moment and snapping photos galore, descend back to your accommodation.
Accommodation: Gokyo Resort
Activity: 4 hours/2.5 miles hiking with 1,860' elevation gain and loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Helicopter to Kathmandu
Day 12
Take off from Gokyo on an exhilarating helicopter flight to Kathmandu via Lukla. Enjoy a panorama of snow-capped peaks, terraced hillsides, and remote mountain villages from above. The stark alpine terrain gradually transitions into green hills and terraced farmland as Kathmandu approaches, and your high-altitude Himalayan trek comes to a close. The afternoon is free to explore or relax—or take advantage of the spa—you’ve earned it! This day is intentionally flexible in case flights are delayed.
Accommodation: The Soaltee Kathmandu
Transportation: 60-minute helicopter flight
Meals: Breakfast
Explore a Hindu Temple & Buddhist Stupa in Kathmandu
Day 13
Discover Kathmandu’s mix of Hinduism and Buddhism with visits to two UNESCO-listed sites. Begin at bustling Pashupatinath Temple, where sacred Hindu rituals unfold along the Bagmati River and saffron-robed sadhus (ascetics) meditate among the many surrounding smaller temples. Continue to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest in the world, encircled by prayer wheels and shrines. Stupas contain Buddhist relics and you can join pilgrims and devotees, walking clockwise around its base—a sign of devotion and respect. Lunch is on your own to explore Kathmandu’s many excellent restaurants and perhaps do a little souvenir shopping. This evening, gather with your group and guides for a farewell dinner to celebrate your journey and share memories of your Himalayan adventure together.
Accommodation: The Soaltee Kathmandu
Activity: Cultural touring
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Depart Kathmandu
Day 14
Bid farewell to Nepal, carrying memories of high mountain passes, turquoise lakes, and Sherpa villages. You will be transferred to Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight.
Transportation: 30-minute private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast
Why Travel With Us?
- Travel with the pioneering company that has led trekking trips in the Everest region since 1969. This is where adventure travel started!
- Get all the views and high-altitude hiking that the Everest Base Camp route offers, but on quieter trails for a more personal experience. This trip also visits the stunning Gokyo Lakes.
- Trust MT Sobek's professional local guides on this expert-led Himalayan trek. You will have insider access to Sherpa villages and a Hindu temple for an immersive experience.
Know Before You Book
Internal Flights: It's important to note that the Nepali government has the authority to make the final decision on the type of aircraft used for the flights between Kathmandu and Lukla, and this decision is subject to change at any time. It may be either a scheduled flight or helicopter. Your itinerary is thoughtfully designed with a flexible final day to accommodate the region's unpredictable mountain weather. Flights to and from Lukla may be delayed or cancelled—sometimes for extended periods. While such interruptions are unusual, please be aware that they can impact onward international travel plans.
Dates & Prices
Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.
2027
- Apr 21 - May 04, 2027$8,495 price per person dbl occ
Which Includes:$2,300 internal airfareOptional:+$1,200 Single OccupancyAvailable - Oct 20 - Nov 02, 2027$8,495 price per person dbl occ
Which Includes:$2,300 internal airfareOptional:+$1,200 Single OccupancyAvailable - Nov 10 - 23, 2027$8,495 price per person dbl occ
Which Includes:$2,300 internal airfareOptional:+$1,200 Single OccupancyAvailable
- Go Private
- Go Custom
- Inclusions
Go Private
Go Private with MT Sobek
Gather your favorite travel companions—family, friends, colleagues, or club—and enjoy an exclusive departure that’s easy to book and completely unforgettable.
Private Trip RequestPrivate Trip Requirements
A 25% non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your private departure.
Minimum age for guests on this trip is 18 years old.
Choose Your Own Travel Dates
March, April, May, October, November
Private Trip Pricing: 2027
7 to 10 guests from $8,495 per person double occupancy
5 to 6 guests from $11,095 per person double occupancy
4 guests from $9,295 per person double occupancy
Included Costs:
Internal Airfare: $2,300
Optional:
$1,200 Single Occupancy
*Seasonal rates may apply.
*Trip pricing on the website is provided as an estimate and is subject to change based on rates at the time of request and seasonality.
Go Custom
Create Your Very Own Adventure
Dreaming of a trip designed just for you?
- Our award-winning travel experts craft custom adventures—perfect for families, couples, and and groups.
- Enjoy insider access, expert guides, and decades of on-the-ground experience. Since 1969.
Custom Trip Details
- This is a sample itinerary. Let us work with you to perfect an adventure tailored specifically to you.
- Deposit: A 25% non-refundable deposit is required once your itinerary is confirmed.
When to Start Planning
Plan ahead for the best experience.
- Early planning secures preferred accommodations, top guides, and the widest range of activities.
- Ideal planning window: 6+ months before travel
- Short-notice trips (under 3 months): Availability may be limited
Travel Dates
March, April, May, October, November
Let's start designing your adventure!
Inclusions
Price Includes
- Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
- All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
- All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
- Snacks and water between meals
- Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
- Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
- Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
- Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
- Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
- Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
- Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
- Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
- Baggage transfers and porterage
Price Does Not Include
- International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
- Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
- Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
- Travel Protection Program
- Personal expenses
Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.
Your Guides
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.

Binoy R.
Raised in the Himalayas and schooled in Darjeeling, Binoy has always been passionate about trekking and mountaineering. In addition to being a top guide on MT Sobek’s Everest Base Camp and Everest Lodge to Lodge adventures, he has undertaken an Advance Mountaineering Course from the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in Darjeeling and is well-versed in Wilderness First Aid. Binoy has climbed many peaks in the Nepal and Sikkim Himalaya, and enjoys studying the region’s flora and fauna. Above all, he is eager to share the wonders of his home country with you.

Pranoy R.
Pranoy was born in Nepal, studied in Darjeeling, India, and has always been a travel enthusiast. Since 1999, he has led numerous treks and tours to Nepal, Tibet and India, and has enormous experience in the field. Pranoy successfully completed his basic mountaineering course at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute of Darjeeling with grade 'A' certificate and is trained in wilderness medicine. In addition to being fluent in English, Nepali, and Hindi, he speaks basic Tibetan and Chinese. Pranoy is very keen on birds, plants, and flowers, and he looks forward to sharing his knowledge with you on the trek.
Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 4. This trip includes moderate to challenging hiking at high altitudes up to 17,575 feet. You will cover between 2.5 and 8 miles each day on rugged mountain terrain. You must be in excellent physical condition for this trek.
Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 2
2-3 hours walking tour
Day 3
3.5-4 hours/5.5 miles hiking with 150' elevation gain and 820' elevation loss
Day 4
3.5 hours/4 miles hiking with 800' elevation gain minimal elevation loss
Day 5
4.5-5 hours/4.5 miles hiking with 1,985' elevation gain and 150' elevation loss
Day 6
4-5 hours/3.5miles hiking with 1,445' elevation gain and loss
Day 7
6-7 hours/7 miles hiking with 2,790' elevation gain and 1,345' elevation loss
Day 8
4 hours/4 miles hiking with 2.067' elevation gain and 1,772' elevation loss
Day 9
4-5 hours/4.5 miles hiking with 1,870' elevation gain and 720' elevation loss
Day 10
4-5 hours/4.3 miles hiking with 1,310' elevation gain and 230' elevation loss
Day 11
4 hours/2.5 miles hiking with 1,860' elevation gain and loss
Day 13
Cultural touring
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guide’s discretion.
Accommodations
Comfortable and rustic mountain accommodation in Nepalese inns and lodges, plus four nights at a 5-star hotel in Kathmandu.
Weather
Autumn daytime temperatures: 45 to 65F; autumn nighttime temperatures 10 to 35F. Rain or snow possible. Spring temperatures 5 to 10F warmer than autumn.
FAQs
This expedition offers a profound immersion into Nepal’s legendary Everest region, the Khumbu, blending iconic Himalayan vistas with the tranquility of quieter, less-traveled trails. Since our first Nepal trek in 1969, we’ve specialized in building authentic connections in this remote region. You will journey from Namche Bazaar to the sacred, turquoise Gokyo Lakes, summiting Gokyo Ri for unparalleled views of four 26,000-foot peaks.
Legacy of Local Expertise: MT Sobek began leading the first groups of US commercial trekkers to Everest Base Camp in 1969. Our deep roots in the Khumbu provide extraordinary local insight and access.
The Trail Less Traveled: Enjoy the same legendary high-altitude vistas and mountain majesty that make the classic Everest Base Camp trek famous, then set off on a tranquil, less-traveled route that visits the stunning turquoise Gokyo Lakes and a Himalayan panorama including Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu.
Expert-Led Trekking & Cultural Experiences: Trek in the footsteps of legends and gain insider access to traditional Sherpa villages like Phortse. Explore UNESCO-listed sites including Bhaktapur and the sacred Pashupatinath Temple.
Spring and autumn are the best months for trekking. These seasons provide the clearest views of the Himalayas and the most comfortable temperatures for long days on the trail, avoiding the summer monsoon and the winter cold.
March to May: Trek through blooming rhododendron forests while heading into the high Khumbu. Daytime and nighttime temperatures are slightly warmer than in the fall, and climbing expeditions are on their way to Everest Base Camp.
October to November: Temperatures are slightly cooler than in spring, making for crisp, clear skies and prime views of the Himalayas.
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18. This itinerary is designed with adult travelers in mind, based on daily activity levels, accommodations, and overall group experience. Families or groups with younger children should check out our private departures .
Sustained physical effort is required for high-altitude trekking across rugged, mountain terrain. You should be prepared for consecutive active days with significant elevation changes, reaching a maximum altitude of 17,575 feet. Unpredictable mountain weather and rustic accommodations in remote villages can add to the challenge. Strong fitness and conditioning and a sense of adventure are key to your enjoyment of this trip.
Daily Elevation Gain and Loss: Prepare for daily elevation gains ranging from 800 to 2,790 feet and descents ranging from 150 to 1,860 feet on rugged mountain paths.
High-Altitude Environment: All of the trekking occurs at significant elevation, culminating in the 17,575-foot summit of Gokyo Ri, where the air is considerably thinner. Most of the hikes and overnight stays on this trip will take place above 9,000 feet.
Varied Terrain: You will navigate a mix of forest trails, suspension bridges, stone staircases, and glacial moraine for 2.5 to 7 miles each day.
In the Himalaya, mountain weather specifically impacts flights to and from Lukla, which may be delayed or cancelled. Our itinerary is intentionally designed with some flexibility to accommodate these unpredictable conditions. The Nepali government also holds authority over aircraft types, meaning scheduled helicopter flights may be substituted for fixed-wing airplanes at any time.
You should fly into and out of Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM).
Once your booking is confirmed, please consult with your Adventure Coordinator before purchasing non-refundable airfare. We recommend arriving at least one day early to adjust to the time zone and allow for any international travel delays.
Arrival: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) by 3:00 pm on Day 1.
Departure: Depart Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) any time on Day 14. Many guests choose to add extra time at the end of their trip in the event of flight delays returning from Gokyo, or to explore more of Kathmandu.
If you plan to extend your stay in Kathmandu, we recommend booking additional nights at our group hotel, The Soaltee Kathmandu. Reservations may be made directly with the hotel or through your MT Sobek Adventure Coordinator.
A valid passport is required to enter Nepal. Most countries require that passports be valid for at least six months beyond the end of your trip and contain at least one blank page for entry stamps.
US citizens require a visa for entry into Nepal. You may complete the visa application online or upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM).
If you complete the visa application in advance, print a copy to take with you to Nepal.
Upon arrival, proceed to the payment counter to pay for your visa with US dollars cash; we recommend having exact change, as a 15-day visa is $30 and a 30-day visa is $50.
Once you have your receipt, proceed to the passport control line, where your visa will be officially stamped into your passport.
Non-US citizens should consult their local embassy or consulate to confirm current entry requirements.
MT Sobek manages the booking of your internal flights and the trekking permits. You will need to upload a color copy of your passport and passport-sized photo to your guest portal as soon as possible so we can arrange flights and permits.
We typically utilize helicopters instead of scheduled airplane flights. Helicopters are comfortable and convenient, help minimize the risk of weather-related delays, and help avoid potentially long drives to alternative airports. It is important to note that the Nepali government maintains the final authority over the type of aircraft used for these segments—whether a helicopter or scheduled flight—and this decision is subject to change at any time. The cost for these internal flights will appear on your trip statement, and our guides will share all necessary details regarding airport transfers while we are in Nepal.
This is a moderate to strenuous trekking adventure that requires high physical fitness for 9 consecutive days of hiking at high altitude. You will cover 2.5 to 7 miles per day on rugged mountain paths, reaching a maximum elevation of 17,575 feet at the summit of Gokyo Ri.
Elevation Gain and Loss: Prepare for sustained climbs and descents at high altitude, including a day with 2,790 feet of elevation gain, and long descents on rocky trails.
Mountain Terrain: You will navigate uneven trails and stone staircases, swaying suspension bridges, and rugged glacial moraine.
High Altitude Environment: Most of the trek takes place above 11,000 feet, where the thinner air significantly increases the cardiovascular challenge of every ascent.
Back-to-Back Active Days: With 9 consecutive days of hiking with 2 optional rest days, your body must be prepared to adjust as you gain altitude.
Begin with a consistent training program focused on cardiovascular endurance and building lower body strength. We recommend starting at least six months before departure, focusing on activities like hiking, running, or cycling at least four times per week.
Cardio Base: Build a strong foundation through brisk walking, hiking, stair climbing, or cycling for at least 40 to 60 minutes per session.
Hill Conditioning: Include at least one weekly hike on hilly terrain or stairs to simulate the sustained ascents and descents you will encounter in the Khumbu. Incline training on a treadmill or stair machine is helpful for those without access to hilly terrain.
Pack Training: Train with the daypack you'll use on the trip, gradually adding weight until you are comfortable carrying the gear you'll need on the trail, like water, snacks, and extra layers.
Consistency is Key: Steady preparation is more effective than high intensity; aim for regular, manageable workouts to build long-term stamina.
The group hikes together with regular breaks. Guides help manage pacing so everyone can hike comfortably while maintaining safety and group cohesion.
Trekking days are active, but you will have downtime on most late afternoons and evenings once you arrive at the lodges to relax and socialize. You will have some free time while in Kathmandu to explore or enjoy the hotel spa.
Accommodations on this trip offer a balance of modern luxury and authentic mountain teahouse experiences. In Kathmandu, you will stay in a 5-star hotel with full amenities.
On the trail, lodging reflects nature of the region, ranging from pinewood cottages to simpler, traditional teahouses in the more remote villages. Rooms and beds may be smaller and more basic than you are used to, but we select the best available lodges in each location.
Guestrooms are basic and typically feature two twin beds. Please note that guest rooms are not heated, but electric blankets or hot water bottles are provided.
Most lodges offer ensuite bathrooms and showers; however, some locations—including Phortse and Dole—have shared facilities. In Machhermo, rooms include ensuite squat toilets only, while showers and flush toilets are shared. Some lodges may offer gas-powered showers (“gas geysers”), which we do not recommend. Instead, your guides will provide hot water for sponge bathing each morning and evening.
Common/dining areas are usually heated with propane heaters or traditional stoves fueled by wood or yak dung.
All breakfasts, and most lunches and dinners are included as noted in the itinerary.
Our lunches and dinners are hearty, multi-course meals. Enjoy Nepali staples like dal (lentils), rice, and flavorful curries, or opt for Western dishes like pasta and roasted meats. A favorite daily tradition is afternoon tea, where the group gathers with your guides over ginger tea and sweets to celebrate the day's trek as you arrive at each lodge. Beer and wine are included for the welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu, but the trip is alcohol-free while on the trail to help you acclimatize and stay healthy.
Yes, we can accommodate most common dietary restrictions like vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. However, due to limited resources and the remoteness of the region, be sure to let us know about your dietary restrictions and food allergies as soon as possible so we can coordinate with guides, hotels, and restaurants. Please also list these on your Participant Information Form.
Yes, a limited number of single rooms are available on this trip. About a third of our travelers go solo, and single room inventory often books up quickly! You can find more information on solo traveler options here .
A detailed Packing List will be provided to help you prepare.
On the trek, guests will need one soft-sided side duffel (no wheeled luggage) and a daypack. Your luggage is transferred from lodge to lodge by porters or pack animals while you hike. Please note a strict weight limit of 15 kg (33 lbs) per person for internal Lukla flights, which includes both checked and carry-on bags combined. Excess luggage can be stored at the hotel in Kathmandu during the trek.
Weather in the Himalayas can vary significantly based on time of year, time of day, and altitude. High mountain environments can shift from intense sun to wind or snow in a matter of hours. While sunny days can be comfortable for trekking, temperatures drop rapidly once the sun sets, especially at high-altitude lodge locations.
Autumn (Oct-Nov) Averages: While trekking, expect daytime temperatures of 45 to 65°F, with nights dropping to 20 to 30°F. Rain or snow is always a possibility. In Kathmandu, expect daytime highs in the 70s to 80s°F and lows in the 50s to 60s°F.
Spring (Mar-May) Averages: While trekking, expect daytime temperatures of 40 to 55°F with nights dropping to 20 to 30°F. Rain or snow is always a possibility. In Kathmandu, expect daytime highs in the 70s to 80s°F and lows in the 50s to 60s°F.
Colder at Altitude: For every 1,000 feet you climb, the temperature typically drops by about 4°F.
The local currency is the Nepalese Rupee. While credit cards are accepted in Kathmandu, you should bring US dollars in cash to pay for your visa fee and to exchange for small purchases and for tipping guides and porters on the trek. Money can be exchanged at the airport upon arrival, at your Kathmandu hotel or a currency exchange, or can be withdrawn from ATMs throughout Kathmandu.
Nepal operates on a 230-volt system and uses Type C, D, and M outlets. A useful resource to see images of plug types is www.power-plugs-sockets.com . Check the voltage on your personal electronics chargers to determine if you need a voltage converter.
Yes, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance for all trips. Travel insurance can help cover trip cancellations or interruptions, medical expenses, emergency evacuation, travel delays, and other unexpected situations. We offer travel insurance with Arch RoamRight and will be happy to provide you with a quote. Please see our Travel Resources page for more information.
Trekking at very high altitudes (14,000 to 18,000 feet) introduces severe environmental challenges. Predicting an individual's physical performance at these levels of altitude is difficult. Because lung and heart capacity naturally decrease with age while blood vessels narrow, travelers over the age of 60 should be exceptionally fit, exercise regularly, and possess prior altitude experience before attempting treks above 16,000 feet.
Please review these critical health and medical guidelines before booking:
Cognitive and Physiological Risks: At extreme elevations, limited oxygen cancause forgetfulness, slight confusion, and impaired judgment. Unmanaged altitude sickness can escalate into life-threatening conditions: High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), which causes fluid accumulation in the lungs and suffocating breathlessness even at rest, or High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), which causes brain swelling, severe confusion, lack of coordination, and altered behavior.
Absolute Medical Contraindications: Due to safety risks in a group environment, the following conditions are considered absolute contraindications for trekking at these elevations:
Congestive heart failure or troublesome cardiac dysrhythmias
Angina brought on by exertion
Emphysema or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Insulin-dependent diabetes
Sleep apnea or pulmonary hypertension
Thromboembolic problems or sickle cell disease
Serious psychiatric problems
Relative Medical Contraindications: The following conditions require a transparent, serious discussion with your physician to fully understand the risks before participating:
Prior cardiac bypass surgery
Cold or exercise-induced asthma
Adult-onset (Type 2) diabetes
Anemia, polycythemia, or obesity
Chronic migraines or recurrent pneumothorax
Nasal polyps
Pregnancy
Medication Review: Many common prescriptions can increase your risk profiles at extreme elevations. Ensure your doctor reviews any use of diuretics (which risk dehydration and low potassium), birth control pills or estrogen (which increase thromboembolism risks), and beta-blockers (which decrease exercise capacity).
Pre-Trip Screening Recommendations: An extreme altitude trekker requires optimal red blood cell counts, clear lungs, a strong heart, healthy kidneys, and well-controlled blood pressure. A resting electrocardiogram (EKG) is often inadequate to evaluate your cardiopulmonary function under stress. An exercise "stress" test is strongly suggested for anyone with cardiac risk factors, a history of heart disease, or any traveler over 50 who does not perform regular, sustained aerobic activity.
On-Trail Support: To manage these elevated risks, our expert guiding teams are fully equipped with safety gear, including supplemental oxygen and a Portable Altitude Chamber (PAC).
Staying healthy in the Himalaya begins with consistent hydration and proper pacing. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and address any "hot spots" or blisters on your feet as soon as they appear using your personal medical kit. Practicing good hand hygiene and prioritizing rest in the evenings will also help you maintain your stamina.
This trip is typically staffed with at least one professional local guide for every eight guests. A second guide is added for larger groups to ensure personalized attention and safety. Porter support is included on all trips to transport all group gear and personal duffels. Guests carry only a daypack while hiking.
Many guests also appreciate taking a relaxed day to adjust to the time zone and prepare their gear before heading into the mountains.
For those interested in more history, a visit to the ancient city of Patan offers spectacular Newari architecture and artisan workshops.






