Gokyo Chola Pass EBC With Island Peak - 23 Days

Download PDF
Trip Facts
  • Duration 23 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate Plus Challenging
  • Country Nepal
  • Maximum Altitude 6,189m/20,305ft.
  • Group Size 15
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Trip Style Trekking/ Peak Climbing

Trip Overview

This extraordinary journey combines the serene beauty of Gokyo Lakes, the breathtaking panorama from Gokyo Ri, the test of endurance going over the Chola Pass,the legendary trek to Everest Base Camp (EBC), the unforgettable sunrise from Kala Patthar, and the ultimate climbing challenge—Island Peak (6,189m).

Gokyo Lakes & Gokyo Ri: A Himalayan Wonderland

Your adventure begins with an off-the-beaten-path trek into the mesmerizing Gokyo Valley after Namche Bazar, home to the pristine turquoise glacial lakes shimmering beneath towering peaks like Cho Oyu the sixth highest mountain in the world. Hiking up Gokyo Ri (5,357m) rewards you with one of the greatest panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu—a breathtaking 360-degree masterpiece that surpasses even the view from Kala Patthar. The valley is a home to six glacial lakes. The view from nearabout fifth lake aka Scoundrels' viewpoint is awe-inspiring as you get to see the gigantic Mt.Everest like touch a distance feeling , bigger than from anywhere else on the trek.

Chola Pass (5420m): A Rugged Beauty And Himalayan Challenge

Chola Pass is one of the most challenging and rewarding high mountain passes in the Everest region. It connects the stunning Gokyo Valley with Everest Base Camp trail . The climb itself is a test of endurance and mental focus despite its difficulty, Chola Pass is an absolute Himalayan masterpiece in terms of majestic view it has to offer. The top of the crest once you accomplish meets you with an awe-inspiring panaroma of the Amadablam, Cholatse and Lobuche East peaks. The Chola Pass is a dramatic mix of raw beauty, glacial terrain and high-altitude adventure.

Everest Base Camp & Kala Patthar: The Heart of the Himalayas

From Gokyo, you’ll cross the challenging Cho La Pass (5,420m), leading you into the classic Everest trail. Reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364m) is a moment of triumph, standing at the foot of the world's highest mountain among glaciers and legendary climbing history. The adventure doesn’t stop there—Kala Patthar (5,545m) offers an unrivaled close-up of Everest bathed in golden sunrise, making every step of the trek worth it.

Island Peak: The Dream Summit

The final phase of your adventure takes you to Island Peak (6,189m), an exhilarating climb that challenges both body and mind. After technical sections and a thrilling ascent up the ice wall, standing on the summit with the Himalayas stretching endlessly around you is a moment of pure euphoria and achievement. The crisp mountain air, the towering peaks, and the deep satisfaction of conquering one of Nepal’s most iconic trekking peaks make this experience one to cherish for a lifetime. What Does Standing On The Summit Of Island Peak Feel Like-- Relief,Exhilarating, Or Something Deeper? Come, Experience, Witness And Share your Stories.

Conquer The Peak , Conquer Yourself

This trek is more than just reaching destinations—it’s about immersing yourself in the beauty of the mountains, the thrill of high-altitude adventure, and the deep personal fulfillment of pushing beyond limits. From the mystical Gokyo Lakes to the legendary Everest Base Camp and finally standing atop Island Peak, this is the ultimate Himalayan experience—a journey that leaves your soul forever connected to the mountains.

Itinerary
Day-to-day Plan
Expand allCollapse all

Arriving at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport is the first step of your adventure in the heart of Nepal.

Once you collect your luggage and clear customs, you will be greeted warmly by your Trekking Group Leader or our Office Representative with a "Mystical Nepal Treks" board who will assist you and transfer you to your hotel.

Although Kathmandu is the busiest city in Nepal with hectic traffic, it still holds a unique charm with its local beauty and lively atmosphere. You will enjoy the fun of driving through its unfamiliar roads. The drive to the hotel will take you through Kathmandu’s lively streets, where the old and new come together. You’ll pass by ancient temples, busy markets, and modern shops, all blending into the colorful culture of Nepal.

Highlights:

  • Airport pickup.
  • Transfer to the hotel with your Group Leader.
  • Brief introduction about your trip.
  • Early arrival gives you a chance to explore Kathmandu.

Altitude: 1,400m / 4,593 feet
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Welcome Dinner
Distance: 6 km
Transport: Airport Pickup

Enjoy your time and relax as you prepare for your trek ahead!

After breakfast, you will drive to Manthali (Ramechhap), which takes about 4-5 hours from Kathmandu. Due to congestion and pollution in Kathmandu, flights to Lukla now depart from Manthali Airport. You will stay overnight at a basic hotel in Manthali and rest for your early morning flight to Lukla the next day.

Altitude: 474 m / 1,555 feet
Accommodation: Basic Hotel
Travel Time: 4 Hours Drive
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: 132 km

This will be an important step in your journey with Mystical Nepal Treks, ensuring a smooth connection to Lukla for your trek ahead!

You will board a scenic 15-minute flight to Lukla, the starting point of your Everest region adventure. Upon arrival, you will meet your porters and begin your trek along the beautiful Dudh Koshi river. As you walk, you'll pass through several villages and cross suspension bridges. You will reach Phakding, a small village with many lodges and teahouses. You will stay overnight at a comfortable teahouse lodge in Phakding.

Altitude: 2,840 m / 9,317 feet
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge
Walking Hours: 4/5 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: 7 km
Transport: Mountain Flight

Get ready for an exciting start to your trek with Mystical Nepal Treks!

You will continue your trek along the Dudh Koshi River and enter Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the entrance, you will need to show your permits. As you walk through the pine forest, you will cross the Hillary Suspension Bridge. This is where you will have your first view of Mount Everest as you approach Namche Bazaar, the main trading center and hub of the Khumbu region. You will stay overnight at a teahouse lodge in Namche Bazaar.

Altitude: 3,450 m / 11,318 feet
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge
Walking Hours: 6/7 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: 9 km

Get ready to experience the beauty and culture of the Everest region with Mystical Nepal Treks!

You will spend a day in Namche Bazaar for acclimatization and exploration. During this time, you will hike up to the Everest View Hotel, which provides stunning panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and other surrounding peaks. You will also visit the Sherpa Culture Museum and the Everest Photo Gallery. Afterward, you will have some free time to explore the market and buy souvenirs. You will stay overnight at a teahouse lodge in Namche Bazaar.

Altitude: 3,962 m / 12,998 feet
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge
Walking Hours: 3/4 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Enjoy this day of cultural immersion and acclimatization with Mystical Nepal Treks!

You will leave Namche Bazaar and follow the trail along the Dudh Koshi valley. During the trek, you will enjoy views of Thamserku, Kangtega, and Ama Dablam. Along the way, you will pass through Phortse Tenga, a small village with a water-driven prayer wheel. Then, you will climb steeply through a rhododendron forest to reach Dole, a village with a few lodges and teahouses. You will stay overnight at a lodge in Dole.

Altitude: 4,200 m / 13,779 feet
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge
Walking Hours: 6/7 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: 11 km

Enjoy this scenic and peaceful part of your journey with Mystical Nepal Treks!

You will trek from Dole to Machchermo, a village on the way to Gokyo Lake. The trail ascends gradually through a beautiful landscape of pastures, streams, and waterfalls. Along the way, you may see yaks and dzopyos grazing. Upon reaching Machchermo, you will find a rescue post and a small museum. You will stay overnight at a lodge in Machchermo.

Altitude: 4,470 m / 14,665 feet
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge
Walking Hours: 4 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: 6 km

Enjoy this peaceful trek surrounded by stunning natural beauty with Mystical Nepal Treks!

You will spend another day in Machchermo for acclimatization and rest. You will hike up to a ridge above the village that offers breathtaking views of Cho Oyu, the sixth-highest mountain in the world. At the local museum, you will also learn about the legend of the Yeti, the mysterious abominable snowman. You will stay overnight at a lodge in Machchermo.

Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge
Walking Hours: 2/3 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Take this day to relax and adjust to the altitude with Mystical Nepal Treks, while enjoying the incredible views!

You will trek from Machchermo to Gokyo Lake, one of the most beautiful and sacred lakes in the Himalayas. Along the way, you will cross the Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal, and reach the first of the six Gokyo Lakes. After that, you will follow the trail along the shore of the second and third lakes before reaching Gokyo, a small settlement with a few lodges and teahouses. After lunch you hike to scoundrels view point fifth lake to closeup view of Everest, trek back to teahouse.You will stay overnight at a lodge in Gokyo.

Altitude: 4,790 m / 15,715 feet
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge
Walking Hours: 4 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: 5.7 km

Enjoy the beauty of Gokyo Lakes and the surrounding mountains with Mystical Nepal Treks!

You will wake up early and hike up to Gokyo Ri, a peak that offers stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and many other peaks. From the top, you will also get a beautiful view of the Gokyo Lakes and the Ngozumpa Glacier. After enjoying the incredible scenery, you will descend back to Gokyo and have breakfast. Then, you will continue your trek to Dragnak, a small village on the other side of the glacier. You will stay overnight at a lodge in Dragnak.

Altitude: 5,480 m / 17,979 feet
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge
Walking Hours: 3/4 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: 4 km

Get ready for an unforgettable experience with Mystical Nepal Treks, taking in breathtaking views of the Himalayas!

You will trek from Dragnak to Dzongla, crossing the challenging Chola Pass along the way. Starting early, you will climb steeply over glaciers and rocks to reach the top of the pass, where you will find prayer flags and cairns. From here, you will enjoy stunning views of Ama Dablam, Cholatse, and Baruntse. After soaking in the beautiful scenery, you will descend carefully to Dzongla, a small village with a few lodges and teahouses. You will stay overnight at a lodge in Dzongla.

Altitude: 5,420 m / 17,782 feet
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge
Walking Hours: 8/9 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: 8 km

Prepare for an adventurous day with Mystical Nepal Treks, taking on the challenging Chola Pass and enjoying breathtaking views of the Himalayas!

You will trek from Dzongla to Lobuche, a small settlement near the Khumbu Glacier. The trail takes you along the moraine of the glacier, passing by frozen lakes. You will also come across memorials dedicated to the climbers who lost their lives on Everest. Afterward, you will reach Lobuche, where you will find several lodges and teahouses. You will stay overnight at a lodge in Lobuche.

Altitude: 4,910 m / 16,108 feet
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge
Walking Hours: 3/4 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: 6.5 km

Get ready for a scenic and reflective trek with Mystical Nepal Treks, surrounded by the majestic Khumbu Glacier and Everest memories!

You will trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep, the last village before Everest Base Camp. The trail follows the Khumbu Glacier, offering views of Pumori, Lingtren, and Nuptse. Upon reaching Gorakshep, you will have lunch before continuing your trek to Everest Base Camp, the highlight of your journey.

At Everest Base Camp, you will see colorful tents of the expedition teams and the famous Khumbu Icefall if it is Spring season. You will also have a chance to meet some climbers and hear their incredible stories. After soaking in the experience, you will return to Gorakshep for an overnight stay.

Altitude: 5,360 m / 17,585 feet
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge
Walking Hours: 8/9 Hours (Total)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: 12 km (Total)

Experience the thrill of reaching Everest Base Camp with Mystical Nepal Treks, a journey of a lifetime!

You will wake up early and hike up to Kala Patthar, the best viewpoint for stunning views of Everest and other majestic mountains. You will enjoy the sunrise over the Himalayas and capture some unforgettable photos. After soaking in the beauty, you will descend back to Gorakshep and have breakfast. Then, you will trek to Dingboche, a village located in the Imja Valley. While walking along the ridge line, you will get a view of Pheriche in the river valley, a village with a hospital run by the Himalayan Rescue Association. You will stay overnight at a lodge in Dingboche.

Altitude: 5,545 m / 18,192 feet
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge
Walking Hours: 8 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: 14.5 km

Experience the beauty of the Himalayas with Mystical Nepal Treks, from Kala Patthar’s stunning views to the peaceful village of Dingboche!

You will trek from Dingboche to Island Peak Base Camp, the starting point of your exciting climbing adventure. The trail follows the Imja Khola river, passing through Chhukung, a small village with a few lodges and teahouses. After crossing a bridge, you will ascend to the base camp. From there, you will have a view of the impressive south face of Island Peak and the surrounding glacier. You will stay overnight at a tented camp in the base camp.

Altitude: 5,200 m / 17,060 feet
Accommodation: Camping
Walking Hours: 5 Hours
Meals: Camping Meals

Join Mystical Nepal Treks for an unforgettable journey to Island Peak Base Camp, where adventure begins amid stunning Himalayan landscapes!

You will spend a day at the Island Peak Base Camp for acclimatization and preparation. During this day, you will have a training session with your expert climbing guide, who will teach you essential climbing skills and techniques. You will practice using climbing equipment like ropes, harnesses, crampons, and ice axes. Additionally, you will learn how to ascend and descend using the fixed ropes. You will stay overnight at a tented camp in the base camp.

Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Camping Meals

Prepare for your climb with Mystical Nepal Treks, where expert guidance and the beauty of the Himalayas meet!

You will wake up around midnight and have a light breakfast to prepare for the exciting ascent to Island Peak summit. With your guide, you will follow the trail using headlamp, fixed ropes where needed. You will cross a rocky ridge and a glacier before reaching the final steep snow slope leading to the top.

You will reach the summit around sunrise and enjoy the incredible views of the surrounding Himalayas. From the top, you will witness peaks like Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Ama Dablam, and more. After spending some time on the summit and capturing the beautiful moments, you will descend back to the base camp for a well-deserved celebratory lunch.

Altitude: 6,189 m / 20,305 feet
Accommodation: Camping
Walking Hours: 10/12 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Climb to new heights with Mystical Nepal Treks, where the summit of Island Peak awaits you with breathtaking views and unforgettable memories!

This is a buffer day, added to your itinerary in case of bad weather or any unforeseen circumstances that may have prevented you from reaching the summit the previous day. You will have another opportunity to attempt the summit or rest at the base camp. If you feel tired or unwell, you also have the option to trek back to Chhukung.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Stay prepared for any changes with Mystical Nepal Treks, where your safety and well-being are our top priority!

You will pack up your tents and begin your trek back to Chhukung. From there, you will continue your journey to Pangboche, a charming village known for its famous monastery. Along the way, you will pass through beautiful landscapes and traditional villages. You will reach Pangboche by the afternoon and check into a teahouse. Afterward, you can relax and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Altitude: 3,930 m/12,893 feet
Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge
Walking Hours: 5/6 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Enjoy the serene beauty and cultural experiences on this part of your adventure with Mystical Nepal Treks!

You will start your trek from Pangboche and descend towards the Dudh Koshi River. After crossing a suspension bridge, you will enter the Sagarmatha National Park. Then, you will climb up to Tengboche, where you will visit the largest and most revered monastery in the Khumbu region a well deserved 220 degree himalayan panaroma with a cup of tea.

Next, you will descend to Phunki Tenga and continue along the river to Namche Bazaar, the central town of the Everest region. You will be welcomed warmly and enjoy a comfortable stay at a teahouse. This is a great opportunity to explore the town and shop for souvenirs.

Accommodation: Teahouse Lodge
Walking Hours: 7/8 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: 16 km

Enjoy your journey with Mystical Nepal Treks, where every step brings you closer to the wonders of the Himalayas!

"One Of The Many Last Trek Day through the Himalayas!"

Today is one of the many to come, last day of the thrilling trek. Soon after breakfast, retracing the trail we take a steep descend through a forest switch-back terrain down to the Hillary bridge and continue to Monjo for a short tea break. From here we continue to Phakding for lunch break a much needed one. Last chance to soak in the beauty of the Dudh Koshi Valley. Retrace your steps past Ghat to end the trek at Lukla.

As you begin your journey back to Lukla, it’s a moment to reflect on the incredible adventure. Retrace your steps through lush forests and charming Sherpa villages, with the mountains slowly fading in the distance. The trail may feel familiar, but every step holds the beauty and serenity of the Himalayas.

This is your last night in the mountains, so take a moment to soak in the peace of the surroundings and the memories you’ve made. It’s not just the end of a trek, but the closing of a chapter filled with breathtaking views, new experiences, and personal triumphs.

On the final night of the trek, it’s time to enjoy and celebrate! There will be fun activities like dancing, eating, drinking, and tipping – a great way to end the adventure with everyone.

Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Walking Hours: 7/8 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: 16 km

A memorable and fun-filled last night before you wrap up the trek!

You will wake up early and have breakfast, then board a scenic flight from Lukla to Kathmandu or Manthali Airport, depending on the weather and flight availability. Enjoy the stunning aerial views of the Himalayan range and the beautiful countryside. After landing, you will transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu or Manthali.

 In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your guide and fellow trekkers, sharing stories and experiences from your adventure.

Accommodation: Hotel
Walking Hour: 4 Hours (Drive)
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Distance: 132 km
Transport: Private Vehicle

It’s the perfect way to end your journey with Mystical Nepal Treks, reflecting on the memories you’ve made in the Himalayas!

Where will your next adventure take you?

Congratulations on completing an unforgettable trek! As you bid farewell to the breathtaking trails and cherished memories, we wish you a safe journey home. May the mountains call you back for another adventure soon. Until we meet again!

Unable to locate what you're seeking?

Reach out to our travel experts.

Cost Details
Includes
  • PERMITS: Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, Pasang Lhamu Municipality Permit.
  • CLIMBING PERMITS: Island Peak Expedition Permit that is issued by NMA.
  • PICKUP AND DROPS: Airport pickup and drop facilities on both domestic and international flights are included.
  • ACCOMMODATION IN KATHMANDU: Twin bed-sharing hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a bed/breakfast basis.
  • WELCOME DINNER: Welcome dinner in a typical traditional Nepali restaurant.Beverages not included.
  • SIGHTSEEING: Half-day guided city sightseeing to two most sacred World Heritage Sites with a paid entrance fee.
  • TAXES: All government and local tax.
  • DOMESTIC FLIGHTS: Domestic flights from Kathmandu / Manthali / Lukla and Lukla / Kathmandu.
  • EQUIPMENT: Fundamental trekking gear like a sleeping bag with fleece liners, Down jacket and trekking poles, etc.
  • CLIMBING EQUIPMENT: All climbing equipment including climbing boots.
  • LODGING: Local tea-house accommodation on a twin-sharing basis – A single supplement is provided on request over minimal cost, however, depends solely on availability.
  • DRINKING WATER: Properly boiled hot water for drinking is provided every evening for group size exceeding 4 pax – so it’s wise to have bottles equivalent to 3 liters or bottles along with a rehydration bag (camel bag).
  • TREK FOOD: Meals (lunch, dinner, breakfast with a cup of hot beverages) during the trek.
  • CAMPING: Two-member tents facility and kitchen crew at Island Peak base camp with hot meals.
  • TREK LEADER: An accomplished Trekking Group Leader (legitimate guiding license holder) and assistant guide.
  • CLIMBING GUIDE: Highly qualified climbing Sherpa and his climbing allowance.
  • STAFF INSURANCE & ALLOWANCES: All ground staff and their allowances + their insurance.
  • SAFETY CONCERNS: Oxygen cylinders and an all-inclusive comprehensive medical kit on all trips + satellite phone.
  • COMPLIMENTARY TAKE AWAY: Take away the Mystical Nepal Treks duffel bag, T-shirt and trekking map.
Excludes
  • NEPAL VISA: A fee of $50 that is levied on a 30-day Nepali visa.
  • INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE: The cost of all international flights.
  • PERSONAL EXPENSES: All personal expenses that may include Nepalese SIM card, internet, battery charging, hot shower, laundry, fizzy drinks, alcohol, etc.
  • EMERGENCY: A medical examination of any kind, high altitude evacuation under any circumstances, air evacuation, and rescues.
  • DONATIONS: Donations of any kind.
  • STAFF TIPPING: Tipping a trekking crew is an expected customin Nepal.
  • EXTRA NIGHTS: Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu on early arrival or late departure.
  • SANCTIONS: Permits or the letter of authorization that is required for special filming, big drones, and filming cameras.
  • INSURANCE: All-inclusive travel or medical insurance is a must.
  • EXTRA PORTER: Upon request, extra porter or assistant is provided, which may include the cost of $25 per day.
  • OPTIONAL TOURS: Optional tours and sightseeing or any activities during free time.
Essential Information

 Terrain & Trail Difficulty: What To Expect?

The Gokyo, Cho La Pass, Everest Base Camp with Island Peak trek is a challenging and diverse adventure, combining the iconic Everest Base Camp trek with a thrilling Island Peak summit and Cho La Pass crossing. The trek involves high-altitude terrain, demanding climbs, and remote areas, requiring trekkers to be physically fit and prepared for variable conditions.

Key Challenges

  • Altitude: With Island Peak standing at 6,189 meters and Everest Base Camp at 5,360 meters, altitude sickness is a significant risk, and proper acclimatization is crucial.

  • Terrain: The trek includes rocky paths, glacier moraines, and steep ascents. Crossing Cho La Pass (5,420 meters) adds a tough challenge due to its technical nature, with snow and ice conditions that may require crampons and ropes.

  • Weather: The weather can be unpredictable, particularly in the higher regions. Cold temperatures and strong winds are common at higher altitudes, especially near Island Peak and Gokyo Ri.

Trek Distance & Duration

Trek Distance: On average, trekkers will cover about 160-180 kilometers during this trek, depending on the exact route taken.

Daily Walking Hours: Expect to walk 6 to 8 hours each day, with longer days in the higher-altitude sections, especially when crossing Cho La Pass or heading to Island Peak Base Camp.

Your Safety Net: Reliable Travel Insurance Backup

Given the remote nature of the trek and the challenging terrain, travel insurance is essential. The trek passes through areas that are far from any towns or cities, and helicopter evacuation might be necessary in case of emergencies such as altitude sickness or injury. Get insured and enjoy your trip.

  • Helicopter Evacuation: Having helicopter evacuation coverage is a crucial safety backup. This can be very costly if you're without insurance. In case of emergency, a helicopter rescue from the mountains could save you both time and significant expense.

  • Medical Coverage: Ensure that your insurance includes medical coverage for any injuries or altitude sickness, as treatment facilities are very limited in the Everest region.
  • Loss of Personal Belongings: It’s also recommended that your insurance covers the loss or damage of personal belongings (like gear, cameras, etc.), as trekkers often travel with valuable equipment.

 Trek Permits & Regulations

This trek requires several permits for both the trekking route and the Island Peak climb. Below are the current rates for the necessary permits:

Sagarmatha National Park (SNP) Permit

  • Cost: USD 30 per person
  • This permit is required to trek through the Sagarmatha National Park, which covers the Everest Base Camp region and surrounding areas.         

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit

  • Cost: NPR 2,000 (approximately USD 15) per person
  • This is required for trekkers entering the Khumbu region, and it contributes to local infrastructure development.           

Island Peak Climbing Permit

  • March to May and September to November (Peak Season): USD 350 per person
  • December to February and June to August (Off-Season): USD 200 per person
  • This permit is specifically for those attempting to summit Island Peak (6,189 meters), and the cost depends on the season. Once you are booked with us all the required documents will be taken care of. So come and live your dream, no hassles.

The Best Time for Gokyo, Cho La Pass, Everest Base Camp Trek with Island Peak

The best time for this trek is between March to May and September to November, when the weather is most stable and the mountain views are clear. Here’s what to expect during these seasons:

March to May (Spring)

Temperature: Ranges from 24°C to -4°C.

  • This is a great time for trekking as the days are warmer, and the vegetation at lower altitudes is lush and vibrant, with flowers in full bloom.
  • It's also a fantastic time for the clear mountain views of Everest and surrounding peaks, including Ama Dablam and Lhotse.
  • September to November (Autumn):
  • Temperature: Ranges from 25°C to -6°C.
  • The autumn season offers clear skies and stable weather, making it a great time to trek through the Everest region. This period also coincides with Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, providing a cultural experience.

Off-Season Trekking (June to August, December to February)

These months are the off-season due to monsoon rains (June to August) and cold winter temperatures (December to February), but treks can still be arranged. If you prefer fewer crowds and are prepared for the colder weather or rain, trekking during this time can be a unique experience.

Trekking Comforts: Where You Sleep And What You Eat

Island Peak is located in a remote region with limited infrastructure, meaning accommodations and food options vary along the route. Trekkers will experience a mix of teahouses, lodges, and tented camps, depending on the altitude and remoteness of the trail. Most tea houses offer shared rooms, and you may not have a private bathroom, you should expect simpler services, especially in the higher altitude areas like Gokyo,Dingboche and Gorak Shep. But the experience adds to the charm and simplicity of the trek. Some tea houses offer hot showers and wifi for an extra cost, and you can also charge your devices for a small fee. Heating is usually available in communal dining areas, but rooms can be cold at night.

  • Teahouse Meals

Breakfast: Porridge, eggs, toast, pancakes, Tibetan bread, and tea/coffee.

Lunch/Dinner: Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, curry), noodles, pasta, soups, momo (dumplings), french fries with burgers and fried rice.

Beverages: Tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and electrolyte drinks are available

Drinking Water: Throughout the trail, boiled water is available at tea houses for a small charge, or you can bring your own water purification tablets to purify water from streams and taps. For group size over 4 Pax we provide hot boiled water every evening, so bring bottles and camel bag recommended.

  • Tented Camps (High Altitude Sections)

At Island Peak Base Camp: No permanent lodges, so climbers stay in tented camps. Full camping setup with sleeping bags, mattresses, and dining tents. Our porters and crew handle tent setup, cooking, and logistics.

  • Meals in Tented Camps

Simple but high-energy meals prepared by the expedition cook. We serve soup, rice, pasta, potatoes, and energy-rich foods to maintain strength. Hot drinks like tea, coffee and rehydration drinks are served frequently to prevent dehydration. Some freeze-dried or packaged meals may be used due to the high-altitude conditions.

Key Considerations: Vegetarian options are widely available; meat is not recommended at higher altitudes due to lack of refrigeration. Food portions are generous, ensuring climbers get enough energy for the trek. Bring snacks (protein bars, nuts, chocolates) for quick energy boosts during long trekking days.

Note: Dietary restrictions can be accommodated if informed in advance.

Additional Service Expenses

Charging, Wi-Fi, and Hot Showers: These services are available at an extra cost, usually ranging from NPR 100 to NPR 500 for charging, NPR 300 to NPR 1,000 for Wi-Fi, and NPR 300 to NPR 500 for a hot shower.

 

FAQs

Yes, you can obtain Nepal tourist visa on arrival at Kathmandu International Airport. In fact for some countries Nepal visa is to be prearranged from their country itself prior to their entry to Nepal. For more details please check Nepal Visa and Entry Procedure in the website

All  our trip itinerary have an arrival and departure day from Kathmandu so you can arrive and leave Kathmandu as per the program. You are also welcome and encouraged to arrive a day earlier or leave Nepal a day later to have a look around the vibrant Kathmandu Valley. Mystical Nepal Treks will help arrange any extra activities as per your interest outside the main package.